Currently, approximately 19 million tons of food waste are generated annually in this country. Among this, the volume of food waste generated by supermarkets, convenience stores, hotels, and the restaurant industry has been particularly notable recently; however, most of it is sent to landfills or incinerated, with the recycling rate remaining below 1%. To address this situation, the government approved the “Bill to Promote the Reuse of Food Circular Resources” in a cabinet meeting at the end of last month and submitted it to the Diet with the aim of recycling the large volumes of food waste generated by food businesses and others. Furthermore, companies outside the food industry, as well as hotels and convenience stores, are increasingly working to recycle food waste generated on their premises as part of their efforts to obtain ISO 14001 certification. In response to these trends, nearly 200 to 300 companies have entered the market for food waste processing equipment, which is essential for handling food waste. This article introduces the current status and challenges of such processing equipment. ● Features and Challenges by Type Composting Type (Fertilizer Type, Feed Type): This method uses microorganisms to ferment food waste and recycle it into fertilizer or feed, and it is the most widespread. They appeared quite early in the 1990s and are used in numerous locations, including businesses, local governments, and schools. The composted end product is utilized as fertilizer or animal feed depending on its composition. The advantages of the composting type are that it is familiar to users and allows for the processing of food waste in a short period of time. However, major issues with this type include odors such as ammonia generated during composting, as well as the intended uses of the resulting fertilizer and animal feed. Regarding odors, while there are differences depending on heating methods and how the food waste is stirred inside the unit, the primary cause is that rapid fermentation—necessary for quick processing—tends to generate large amounts of foul odors all at once. Manufacturers are increasingly including deodorization and odor-elimination devices to suppress odors, but this inevitably drives up the purchase price. Furthermore, the quality of the resulting fertilizer and animal feed is heavily dependent on the contents and fermentation conditions, making recycling a significant challenge. Recently, some manufacturers have begun partnering with farmers and livestock producers to take back the end products. However, issues such as quality assurance for the products, transportation costs to the collection points, labor costs for removing foreign matter, and—in the case of feed—price competition with imported feed mean that these initiatives remain limited to a few cases. This is likely to be a major challenge for widespread adoption in the future. Elimination Type: This method uses microorganisms to break down food waste into water and carbon dioxide, significantly reducing its volume. It is currently the most common type among new entrants to the market. Although the waste does not completely disappear, this term is used because the volume is drastically reduced. Basically, wood chips or similar materials are used as a substrate, which is then agitated to allow microorganisms to break down the food waste into water and carbon dioxide. If the substrate is replaced regularly, the system can be used for a long period. A major advantage is that, unlike the composting type, there is no need to consider where to use the end product. However, the decomposition type is not a panacea and has several issues. First is the price. For systems with a processing capacity of 1,000 kilograms per day or more, many models cost over 10 million yen, placing them in a higher price bracket compared to other options. The next issue is the disposal of used microbial bed material. Since food waste in Japan has a relatively high salt concentration, salt becomes concentrated in the microbial bed material during the treatment process. This salt not only shortens the lifespan of the microorganisms but also limits the subsequent uses of the microbial bed material. While some manufacturers will take back the material for use as soil conditioners, others are promoting incineration due to the salt content issue. Furthermore, because microorganisms are used, the problem of foul odors is unavoidable, just as it is with composting systems. Additionally, in the case of the drainage-type system within the decomposition category, depending on the contents, the effluent may exceed the discharge standards set by the Water Pollution Control Act; therefore, attention must be paid to this point as well. Drying Type: This method heats and dries food waste to reduce its volume. It makes it easier to handle contaminants such as foreign objects, and since heat sterilization occurs during drying, the dried material can be easily used as raw material for fertilizers or animal feed, and odor issues are less of a concern. However, the volume reduction rate is lower compared to composting or incineration types, and there are energy cost issues associated with heating. While this may be acceptable for primary treatment, it presents some challenges when considering the recycling process as a whole. Carbonization Type: While this method is often associated with carbonizing wood-based waste for use as soil conditioners or water purification materials, it is also utilized for food waste treatment. Most systems employ a method where sealed food waste is indirectly heated from the outside using electricity or a burner. Like the drying type, there are no issues with foreign matter contamination or foul odors, and the volume reduction rate is high. However, in the case of burner-type systems, compliance with the Fire Service Act can be an issue, and energy costs are also a concern. Since there are still few manufacturers in this market and limited track records of installations, it is necessary to monitor future developments. Hydrothermal Treatment Type: Although similar to the incineration type, it was classified separately because the treatment method differs significantly from conventional methods. Jointly developed by Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries and Shinryo Refrigeration & Air Conditioning at the end of 1999, this system uses subcritical water technology and wet oxidation to decompose food waste into water and carbon dioxide. The treated water can be discharged directly into the sewer system. Unlike conventional incineration systems, it completely decomposes all materials except inorganic substances, resulting in virtually no residual waste. Because it operates continuously with no open sections, no odors are generated, and processing time is reduced. Since water is used, there are absolutely no byproducts after processing, making this a system that enables zero-emission food waste treatment. However, concerns remain regarding its high cost, the time required to amortize the equipment, and energy costs. There are also various other challenges, including technical issues, operational management, and maintenance of the processed materials. While technology for food waste treatment is steadily advancing, many challenges remain. It is hoped that these challenges will be overcome in the future, leading to the widespread adoption of more efficient and environmentally friendly treatment methods.
Thursday, April 9, 2026
現在、この国では年間約1900万トンもの食品廃棄物が発生しています。
現在、この国では年間約1900万トンもの食品廃棄物が発生しています。 この中でも、最近は特にスーパーやコンビニ、ホテル、外食産業からの生ごみの発生量が目立ちますが、そのほとんどが埋め立てや焼却され、リサイクル率は1％にも満たない状況です。 こうした状況を打開するため、政府は先月末、「食品循環資源再利用促進法案」を閣議決定し、食品事業者などから大量に排出される生ごみなどの再生利用を目指して国会に提出しました。 また、食品事業者以外の企業やホテル、コンビニなどではISO 14001の取得に伴い、事業所内で発生する生ごみの再資源化に取り組む動きも活発になっています。 こうした動きを受けて、生ごみ処理に必須の処理機の事業には200〜300近い企業が参入しています。 本稿では、こうした処理機の現状と課題について紹介します。 ●種類別の特徴と課題 コンポスト型（肥料型、飼料型）：生ごみを微生物を用いて発酵させ、肥料や飼料として再資源化するもので、最も普及しています。 90年代のかなり早い段階から登場し、企業や自治体、学校など数多くの場所で使用されています。 堆肥化された生成物は、その内容に応じて肥料や飼料として利用されます。 利用者にとって馴染み深く、また短時間での生ごみ処理が可能な点がコンポスト型の利点です。 しかし、このタイプではコンポスト化の際に発生するアンモニアなどの臭気や生成物として出てくる肥料と飼料の用途が大きな問題となります。 臭気に関しては加熱や内部での生ごみの攪拌方法により違いはありますが、短時間での処理のために急速に発酵させることから、大量の悪臭が一度に発生しやすくなることが大きな原因となっています。 メーカー側では臭気を抑えるため、脱臭・消臭装置をセットにするケースも増えていますが、その分購入費用も高くなってしまいます。 また生成された肥料・飼料に関しては、内容物や発酵条件によってその品質が大きく左右されてしまうため、リサイクルの上で大きな問題となっています。 最近では農家や畜産業者と提携し、生成品を引き取るメーカーも出てきていますが、生成品の品質保証や引き取り先までの運送費、混入している異物の除去などの人件費、さらに飼料では海外飼料との価格競争の問題もあり、こうした動きはまだ一部に限られており、今後の普及の上で大きな課題となりそうです。 消滅型：生ごみを微生物を使って水と炭酸ガスに分解し、大幅に減量するもので、最近では新規参入業者の中で最も多いタイプです。 完全に消え去るわけではないものの、大幅に減量されることからこの表現が用いられています。 基本的には木材チップなどを菌床材にして攪拌し、微生物により生ごみを水と炭酸ガスに分解させます。 菌床材を定期的に交換すれば長期間使用することが可能です。 コンポスト型のように生成品の利用先を考えずに済むのが大きな利点です。 ただし消滅型も万能というわけではなく、いくつかの問題点があります。 まずは価格です。 処理能力1000キログラム/日以上のものでは、価格が1000万円を超える機種が多く、他のものに比べて高価格帯のケースが多いです。 次に問題なのは使用済みの菌床材の処理です。 日本の食品廃棄物は塩分濃度が比較的高いため、処理に伴い菌床材に塩分が濃縮されてしまいます。 この塩分は微生物の寿命を縮めるだけでなく、菌床材のその後の用途を限定してしまう要因にもなっています。 メーカーによっては土壌改良剤などとして引き取ってくれるところもありますが、含有塩分の問題から焼却を進めているメーカーもあります。 さらに微生物を使うため、悪臭の問題もコンポスト型同様避けて通れない問題となっています。 また消滅型でも排水を流すタイプの場合、内容物によるが成分的に水質汚濁防止法による排水基準を超えるような排水が出る場合もあり、この点にも注意を払わなければなりません。 乾燥型：生ごみを加熱して乾燥し、減量化するものです。 異物の混入などにも対処しやすく、また乾燥により熱殺菌を行なうため、乾燥物を肥料や飼料の原料として利用しやすく、悪臭の問題もあまり気にせずに済みます。 ただし、減量化率がコンポスト型や消滅型に比べて低く、加熱時のエネルギーコストの問題があります。 一次処理を考えるならばともかく、リサイクル全体を考えると多少の問題があるといえます。 炭化型：木質系の廃棄物を炭化し、土壌改良剤や水質浄化材として利用されるイメージがありますが、生ごみ処理にも利用されています。 多くは密閉した生ごみを外部から電気やバーナーで間接的に加熱する方式が取られています。 乾燥型同様、異物の混入や悪臭などの問題はなく、減容化率も高いです。 ただし、バーナー式の場合は消防法との絡みが問題になるほか、エネルギーコストが問題となります。 まだ参入メーカーや納入実績ともに少ないため、今後の動向を見守る必要があります。 水熱処理型：消滅型に近いですが、処理方法が従来のものとはかなり異なるため、敢えて分類しました。 99年末に石川島播磨重工業と新菱冷熱工業が共同開発したもので、亜臨界水技術と湿式酸化処理などを用いて生ごみを水と炭酸ガスに分解します。 処理後の水は直接下水道に放出できます。 従来の消滅型と違い、無機物以外は完全分解するため、若干の残渣も発生しません。 連続処理で開放部がないため臭気が発生せず、処理時間も短くなっています。 水を使用しているため、処理後の生成物が一切なく、生ごみ処理のゼロエミッション化を可能とした装置です。 しかし、価格が高額であり、設備償却に時間がかかることや、エネルギーコストの問題が懸念されます。 また、技術的な問題や運転管理、処理物の維持管理など、さまざまな課題もあります。 食品廃棄物の処理に関する技術は着実に進歩していますが、依然として課題も多く残されています。 今後はこれらの課題を克服し、より効率的で環境に優しい処理方法が普及していくことが望まれます。
The market for organic products—grown using organic fertilizers without pesticides or chemical fertilizers—is expanding.
The market for organic products—grown using organic fertilizers without pesticides or chemical fertilizers—is expanding. Organic cotton (pesticide-free cotton) is particularly in the spotlight, with the current estimated annual market size at approximately 1 trillion yen. Although the price at the raw cotton stage is about twice that of conventional cotton, the market is growing as these products are considered environmentally friendly, with the use of pesticides and chemicals minimized from cultivation through to manufacturing. Avanti Co., Ltd., the company featured here, is a specialized trading firm that has been handling organic cotton for eight years and is a pioneer in the import of organic cotton to Japan. We spoke with Chieko Watanabe, the company’s president. ● How She Discovered Organic Cotton Ms. Watanabe founded Avanti Co., Ltd. in 1985. While importing a wide range of household goods, she encountered organic cotton in 1990. “It all started when an acquaintance asked me to import it to Japan, and I agreed on a whim. Up until then, I had always associated cotton with a natural image, so I became interested when I learned that organically grown cotton existed.” She immediately began importing fabric from the United States, but initially, annual sales amounted to only a few million yen. “Back then, even though we called it organic cotton, nobody in Japan knew what it was, and there was absolutely no information available. I took the plunge and visited Texas, the largest producer of organic cotton.” In Texas, she toured facilities covering everything from organic cotton production to distribution. Texas has long been a major cotton-producing region, and it is known for its strategic initiatives regarding organic cotton—such as the state Department of Agriculture establishing its own standards in 1989. Various innovative practices were in place, such as refraining from using defoliants during harvesting, using natural predators for pest control, utilizing the abundant cattle manure in Texas as organic fertilizer, and minimizing the use of chemicals at every stage of the process, right up to sewing. Furthermore, the state Department of Agriculture had established a robust management system to prevent fraud, such as inflating production figures or using pesticides, covering the entire process from production to distribution. “Above all, I was deeply moved by my encounters with the cotton farmers.” This is because most of them are Christians who view it as their mission to pass on the farmland they currently cultivate in a healthy state to the next generation and, ultimately, to God. Organic farming had become part of their religious beliefs, and Mr. Watanabe—himself a farmer’s son from Hokkaido—resonated with their view of nature and resolved to make organic cotton his life’s work. Upon returning to Japan, he began preparations to establish a trading company specializing in organic cotton. In 1993, he founded the local subsidiary “KatanHouse” in Texas and received certification from the Texas Department of Agriculture to handle organic cotton. ● Sales of our own brand began in February Although we were now able to import raw cotton and process it, we were starting from scratch with absolutely no existing demand, which made it extremely difficult to find companies willing to cooperate. Since organic cotton does not use chemicals, it requires a different manufacturing process than conventional cotton, so spinning mills, textile manufacturers, and garment manufacturers all needed a deep understanding of organic cotton. Nevertheless, after visiting various manufacturers, eight companies agreed to cooperate in the production of organic cotton products. Furthermore, during this process, Mr. Watanabe—who was a complete novice when it came to textiles—began learning everything from technical terminology to the fundamentals of textiles. In 1993, the nine companies—the eight mentioned earlier plus Avanti—established the “Japan/Texas Organic Cotton Association” and even managed to organize an inspection trip to Texas. They established supply rates, and as the use of organic cotton in baby and children’s clothing, bedding, and other items increased, major apparel manufacturers like Wacoal and World were on the verge of adopting it around 1995. However, the Great Hanshin Earthquake struck, causing these manufacturers based in the Kansai region to postpone their plans to adopt organic cotton. “While it was unavoidable, it was a painful blow because we were just starting to get things on track.” Nevertheless, they used this as an opportunity to resolve not only to supply raw cotton but also to produce finished products under their own brand. “Organic cotton won’t catch on unless people buy it because it’s lovely and discover later that it’s organic—not because they assume it must be expensive just because it’s organic. To achieve that, we need to move away from designs that look a bit old-fashioned.” Through various innovations, such as incorporating embroidered lace made with organic cotton thread, we have developed sophisticated designs. “By processing the raw cotton in Japan, we can utilize advanced sewing techniques while also hoping to encourage the textile industry to consider environmentally friendly products,” he says, noting that fabric production, design, and sewing are all carried out almost entirely within Japan. In late February 1998, the company finally launched its own brand, “Pristine.” Sales began at the Matsuya Department Store in Ginza. Plans for several other locations have also been finalized. “After eight years of working with organic cotton, we’ve reached a stage where we first encouraged textile manufacturers to produce the fabric, then asked apparel manufacturers to use it, and finally, the retail industry is asking us, ‘Please let us carry your products.’” Thanks to sales of our own brand, we expect a 50% increase in sales in 1998 compared to the previous year. “For Mr. Watanabe, his encounter with organic cotton marked the start of his second life. ‘I plan to continue promoting its use, and I hope that in the future, organic cotton will become a completely ordinary material,’ he said.”
農薬や化学肥料を使わずに有機肥料で栽培したオーガニック製品が市場を拡大しています。
農薬や化学肥料を使わずに有機肥料で栽培したオーガニック製品が市場を拡大しています。 なかでも脚光を浴びているのがオーガニックコットン（無農薬栽培綿）で、現在の推定年間市場規模は約1兆円です。 価格は原綿の段階で通常コットンの約2倍と割高になりますが、栽培から縫製に至るまで農薬や化学薬品の使用を極力抑えた環境負荷の低い製品として、市場が広がっています。 今回紹介する（株）アバンティはオーガニックコットンを扱って8年になる専門商社で、日本におけるオーガニックコットン輸入の草分けでもあります。 同社の渡辺智恵子社長にお話を伺いました。 ●オーガニックコットンとの出会い 渡辺さんが（株）アバンティを設立したのは1985年です。 生活雑貨全般の輸入を手掛ける中で、90年にオーガニックコットンに出会いました。 「知人から日本への輸入を頼まれ、軽い気持ちで引き受けたのがきっかけです。 それまでコットンというとナチュラルなイメージがありましたので、有機栽培のコットンというものがあると知って興味を持ちました」。 さっそく米国から生地の輸入を開始しましたが、当初は年間で数百万円の売上げにしかなりませんでした。 「当時はオーガニックコットンと言っても日本では誰も知らない状態で、情報も全くありませんでした。 思い切ってオーガニックコットン最大産地であるテキサスを訪ねました」。 テキサスでは、オーガニックコットンの生産から流通までを見学しました。 テキサス州はもともと綿花の一大産地で、オーガニックコットンについても89年には州農務省が独自の基準を作るなど、戦略的な取り組みで知られています。 摘み取りの際に枯れ葉剤を使わない、天敵による害虫駆除、テキサスに多い牛のふんを有機肥料に利用する、縫製に至る全段階で化学物質の使用を極力抑えるなど、さまざまな工夫がなされていました。 さらに、生産量の水増しや農薬の使用などの不正を防ぐ管理体制も、生産から流通に至るまで州農務省によってきちんと整備されていました。 「何より、コットンの栽培農家の人々との出会いに感銘を受けました」。 というのも、彼らのほとんどがクリスチャンで、今耕している農地を健康な状態で次の世代に、そしてゆくゆくは神に返すことを使命と考えています。 有機栽培が彼らの宗教観となっており、自らも北海道の農家の出身である渡辺さんは彼らの自然観に共鳴し、オーガニックコットンをライフワークとすることを決意しました。 日本に戻り、オーガニックコットン専門商社となるための準備を始めました。 93年にはテキサス州に現地法人「KatanHouse」を設立し、同州農務省からオーガニックコットン取り扱いの認定を受けました。 ●2月から自社ブランドの販売をスタート こうして原綿を輸入して加工できることになりましたが、まったくニーズのないところからのスタートであり、だからこそ協力してくれる企業を探すのが大変でした。 オーガニックコットンは化学薬品を使わないため通常と異なる工程が必要になるので、紡績や繊維、縫製メーカーなどにもオーガニックコットンへの深い理解が必要です。 それでも色々な製造メーカーを回り、8社がオーガニックコットン製品の製造に協力してくれることになりました。 また、こうした過程で、繊維についてはまったくの素人だった渡辺さんも、専門用語に始まり繊維全般について学んでいったとのことです。 93年には前述の8社にアバンティを加えた9社で「日本／テキサスオーガニックコットン協会」を設立し、テキサスに視察に行くところまでこぎつけました。 素材供給のレートを確立し、ベビー服や子供服、寝具などへの採用が増えてきて、95年ごろにはいよいよワコールやワールドなどの大手アパレルメーカーでの採用が決まりつつありました。 ところが阪神大震災が起こったことで、これら関西を本拠地とするメーカーでのオーガニックコットン採用が見送られることになってしまいました。 「仕方のないこととはいえ、ようやく軌道に乗りつつあった矢先でしたので、これは痛かったです」。 しかし、これを機に原綿提供だけでなく、自社ブランドによる最終製品まで作ることを決意しました。 「オーガニックだから高くても当然、という売り方ではなくて、素敵だから買ってみたらオーガニックだったというふうにならなくては普及しません。 そのためには、野暮ったさのあるデザインを変えていくことが必要です」。 オーガニックコットンの糸で刺繍をしたエンブロイダリーレースを取り入れるなどの工夫を重ね、洗練されたデザインを開発してきました。 「原綿を日本で加工することで、高度な縫製技術を活かすと同時に、繊維産業界が環境保全製品について考えるきっかけになれば」と、生地製造、デザイン、縫製ともほぼ100％国内で行っています。 98年2月下旬には、ついに自社ブランド「プリスティン」を発表しました。 まずは銀座の松屋デパートから販売をスタート。 その他にもいくつかの展開が決まっています。 「8年間オーガニックコットンに関わってきて、まずは繊維メーカーに生地作りを働きかけ、次にアパレルメーカーに使用をお願いし、そしてついに流通業界から『置かせてほしい』と言ってもらえる段階に来たということでしょうか」。 自社ブランドの販売によって、98年は前年比50％増の売上げを見込んでいます。 「オーガニックコットンとの出会いは、渡辺さんにとって第二の人生のスタートだったという。 『今後も普及活動を続け、将来的には、オーガニックコットンがごく当たり前の素材となればと考えています』」。
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Nikken Sogyo’s operations can be broadly divided into two categories: comprehensive building management services, and operation and maintenance services related to water treatment—such as the cleaning of building grease traps, sewage tanks, and reclaimed water systems, as well as waste disposal and the operation of water purification plants and sewage treatment plants. The company reports that management services account for approximately 50% of its business, while operation and maintenance services account for the remaining 50%.
Nikken Sogyo’s operations can be broadly divided into two categories: comprehensive building management services, and operation and maintenance services related to water treatment—such as the cleaning of building grease traps, sewage tanks, and reclaimed water systems, as well as waste disposal and the operation of water purification plants and sewage treatment plants. The company reports that management services account for approximately 50% of its business, while operation and maintenance services account for the remaining 50%. The company’s predecessor, Katayama Shoji Co., Ltd., began operations in 1941 as a general waste collection, transportation, and processing business (including human waste treatment). After the war, the company grew by securing contracts for cleaning and waste disposal at U.S. military facilities, including Yokota Air Base, and the Japan Self-Defense Forces Eastern Army. Furthermore, in the 1950s, the area along the Tobu Tojo Line in Saitama Prefecture—which had been the company’s traditional base—developed into a commuter town with an expanding sewer system. At the same time, the company expanded its business by actively obtaining registrations and permits, including licenses for general and industrial waste disposal. The company has a proven track record in wastewater treatment—such as sewage—and garbage collection. Regarding sewage, in the industrial waste disposal sector, the company manages and operates sewage treatment plants and treats mixed wastewater from building drainage tanks where wastewater from the food service industry and other sources mixes with sewage. In the general waste management sector, services include vacuum truck collection, septic tank management, and the treatment of wastewater from community plants and building sewage tanks. Recently, the company has seen a high volume of inquiries regarding the operation and management of sewage treatment plants, as well as the cleaning of building tanks—such as mixed wastewater tanks and sewage tanks—referred to as “building pits.” Currently, these two services account for roughly half of the company’s business. Regarding sewerage, we established an industrial waste treatment division in 1976, when building construction began to boom, and were quick to respond to the growing demand. In addition to building pit cleaning, for which we receive many private-sector contracts, grease trap cleaning—which involves cleaning drain grates in the food service industry—is also growing steadily. Of the hundreds of thousands of buildings and condominiums in Tokyo alone, it is estimated that only about one-third comply with regulations regarding the cleaning of pits and similar facilities. It is expected that demand will continue to grow if regulations are tightened in the future. Meanwhile, in waste collection, commercial waste is the mainstay rather than general household waste contracted from local governments. The company receives contracts from the food service industry, hotels, and office buildings to transport waste to municipal incinerators and treatment facilities. In recent years, as waste collection requirements for recycling have become stricter, the company has also been focusing its efforts on this sorted waste collection. The company currently handles three types of sorted waste: bottles, cans, and cardboard. For cans in particular, the company has purchased and installed compactors at each of its business locations. The compactors measure 60 x 120 cm and cost 500,000 yen. When cans are inserted, the machine separates them into aluminum and steel cans before compressing them to one-fourth to one-fifth of their original size. Regulations for sorted collection are expected to become even stricter in the future—including color-coding for PET bottles, polystyrene foam, and glass bottles—and the company is exploring ways to adapt to this as an opportunity for expanding demand. When asked about the company’s unique strengths, the response was, “It is, after all, our ability to secure the know-how and labor force at the front lines.” Founded in 1941, the company boasts a long track record and accumulated expertise. Additionally, through its unique connections with Brazil, it has a stable supply of Japanese-Brazilian workers, so it does not face labor shortages. Wastewater and garbage will never disappear as long as people continue to live. In other words, it can be described as a stable industry with guaranteed demand. “However, moving forward, it will be crucial not just to get the work done, but to elevate the company as a whole.” To achieve this, the company states that while expanding operations toward its future goal of an initial public offering (IPO) is essential, improving internal awareness is equally indispensable. “I believe the importance and nature of the waste management industry will be re-examined in the future. We will be required to recognize the significance of this industry and the importance of the environment, make efforts to meet customer needs, and give back profits to society.” Against the backdrop of a buyer’s market in recent years, the company has been successfully attracting motivated talent. “It is important to nurture this generation,” he says, noting that the company has established forums for employees under 30 to exchange ideas and creates opportunities to hear from guest speakers. In addition to its core business, the company sponsors events such as the environmental art exhibition “Art of the Amazonian Indigenous Peoples” (see photo on page 1), which opens on September 14. Furthermore, although the idea remains in the planning stages at this time due to cost constraints, the company aims to enter the recycling business in the future. The company believes that urine recovered from sewage tanks can be turned into organic fertilizer, and oil recovered from grease traps can be refined into high-quality machine oil.
日建総業の業務は大きく分けて建物総合管理業務と、ビルの雑排槽、汚水槽、中水設備の清掃、廃棄物処理や浄水場、下水処理場などの水処理関連の運転維持業務のふたつに分けられ、その比率は管理業務が50%、運転維持業務が50％程度だという。
日建総業の業務は大きく分けて建物総合管理業務と、ビルの雑排槽、汚水槽、中水設備の清掃、廃棄物処理や浄水場、下水処理場などの水処理関連の運転維持業務のふたつに分けられ、その比率は管理業務が50%、運転維持業務が50％程度だという。 同社の前身である片山商事株式会社が一般廃棄物収集運搬処理業（し尿処理）として業務を開始したのは昭和16年。 戦後になり横田基地をはじめとする米軍施設や自衛隊東部方面隊の消掃・廃棄物処理の仕事を受注したこと、さらには昭和30年代にもともと同社が地盤としていた埼玉県東武東上線沿線がベッドタウン化し下水道が発達したことなどによって、成長してきた。 同時に一般廃棄物、産業廃棄物処理業の許可をはじめ、登録及び許可を積極的に取得することで、事業を拡大していった。 同社で実績を上げているのが、し尿などの排水処理とゴミの収集。 し尿については、産業廃棄物処理関連では、下水道終末処理場の管理運転と、外食産業などから流れ込む排水がし尿と一緒になるビルの雑排水槽の処理。 また、一般廃棄物処理の分野では、バキュームカーによるくみ取り、浄化槽の管理、コミニティ・プラントやビルの汚水槽の処理などが挙げられる。 その中で最近、引き合いの多いのが、下水道の終末処理場の運転・管理と雑排水槽や汚水槽などビルビットと呼ばれるビルのタンクの清掃で、現在その比率は半々といったところ。 下水道に関してはビル建設が盛んになり始めた昭和51年に産業廃棄物処理部門を設け、いち早く普及に対応してきた。 民間からの委託の多いビルピット消掃のほか、外食産業の排水口のマスを清掃するグリストラップ清掃も順調に伸びている。 都内だけで数十万棟といわれるビルやマンションのうち、規制どおりにピットなどの清掃を行なっているのは全体の約3分の1と見られており、今後規制が強化されれば、ますます需要が広がることが予想されている。 一方、ゴミ収集では自治体から受注する一般ゴミよりも事業系ゴミが主力。 外食産業やホテル、オフィスビルなどから委託され、自治体の焼却炉や処理場へと運ぶ。 近年、ゴミの収集はリサイクルのための分別が厳しくなる一方、同社でもこの分別ゴミ収集に力を入れている。 実施分別を行なっているのは、ビン、缶、段ボールの3種類。 なかで缶は、各事業所にプレス機を買い取りで設置してもらっている。 プレス機の大きさはSOX60X120cm、価格は50万円。 缶を入れると、アルミ缶とスチール缶に分けた上で、元の大きさの4~5分の1に圧縮する。 今後とも分別収集は、PETボトルや発泡スチール、ビンの色分けなど、規制がさらに強化されることが予想され、同社でも需要拡大のチャンスとして対応を検討している。 同社独自の強みは、という問いには「やはり末端の現場のノウハウと労働力を確保できていること」。 創業昭和16年という営業実績とノウハウの蓄積、加えてブラジルとの独自のバイプを持ち、日系ブラジル人の安定した雇用供給が得られ、労働力不足に悩むことはないという。 排水やゴミなどは人が生活していく限り決して無くならない。 言い換えれば需要が確実に見込める安定産業ということができる。 「しかしながら、今後は仕事をただこなしていくのではなく、会社全体のレベルアップが大切になってくる」。 そのためには将来の目標として掲げる店頭公開を目指して事業を拡大していくことと同時に、社内意識を向上させることも不可欠だという。 「これから廃棄物処理業の重要性とあり方が問い直されることになると思う。 この仕那の意義と環境の大切さを認識し、顧客のニーズに応えていくためのエフォーと、利益を社会に還元することが求められてくる」。 ここ数年の買い手市場を背景に、同社においても意欲のある人材を獲得しつつある。 「この世代を育てていくことが大切」と、30オまでの社員で意見交換する場を設けたり、講師を招いて話を聞く機会を作ったりしている。 また、事業以外の活動としては、9月14日から開催される環境美術展「アマゾン・インディオのアート展」(1頁写真参照）などの後援を手掛ける。 さらに、コスト的な折り合いがつかないため現時点では構想にとどまっているが、将来的にはリサイクル事業にも進出していきたいとする。 汚水槽から回収される尿は有機肥料に、グリストラップから回収される油は、精製すれば良質な機械油にリサイクルできるはずという。
Illegal Waste Dumping Issue – April 2007
Illegal Waste Dumping Issue – April 2007 In areas such as Tsuchiura City and Kashima City in Ibaraki Prefecture, the problem of illegal waste dumping has once again become serious since the start of 2007. In particular, industrial waste such as waste oil, sludge containing heavy metals, and construction debris has been dumped in large quantities in forests and vacant lots, raising concerns that contamination is spreading into groundwater and soil. On-site investigations have detected levels of lead and arsenic exceeding regulatory limits, raising concerns about potential health risks to nearby residents. In this case, suspicions have grown that the waste disposal company "Higashi-Kanto Recycling Co., Ltd." was involved. The Ibaraki Prefectural Police uncovered the company’s illegal activities and arrested those responsible. Additionally, approximately 100 tons of waste have been confirmed at an illegal dumping site on the outskirts of Tsuchiura City, and cooperation between the prefecture and the Ministry of the Environment is required to remove it. In the 2010s, a new illegal waste dumping issue emerged in northern Ibaraki Prefecture. On the outskirts of Hitachi City, wastewater from a chemical plant flowed into the groundwater system in a mountainous area, and health problems were reported among some residents. In this case, the local company "North Kanto Chemical" received administrative guidance due to inadequate waste liquid treatment. Furthermore, in Kashima City in 2015, an illegal waste disposal operator was apprehended, and tens of thousands of tons of industrial waste were confirmed. As a result, the licensing standards for waste treatment facilities were revised. Entering the 2020s, the issue of illegal waste dumping in Ibaraki Prefecture became even more complex. Near Tsukuba City, a new case of illegal dumping of electronic waste was uncovered, with approximately 200 tons of discarded circuit boards and used batteries discovered. These items contain lithium, lead, cadmium, and other substances, and while recycling technology has advanced, illegal dumping by unscrupulous operators remains a serious concern. In particular, in a case involving “Ibaraki Clean Service Co., Ltd.,” there are suspicions of illegal exports overseas. Ibaraki Prefecture has introduced "EcoTrack2025," an AI-powered waste tracking system, to facilitate the early detection of illegal activities. Additionally, Kashima City has begun using surveillance drones to patrol for waste, strengthening efforts to identify dumping sites. Meanwhile, approximately 500 million yen was allocated for cleanup operations in fiscal year 2023 alone, increasing the financial burden. Through these initiatives, the prefecture aims to ensure local environmental conservation and resident safety, while seeking a fundamental solution to the problem of illegal dumping.
廃棄物不法投棄問題-2007年4月
廃棄物不法投棄問題-2007年4月 茨城県土浦市や鹿嶋市などの地域で、2007年に入り廃棄物不法投棄の問題が再び深刻化しました。特に、産業廃棄物として投棄されたのは廃油、重金属を含むスラッジ、建設廃材などで、これらが山林や空き地に大量に捨てられ、地下水や土壌への汚染が広がる懸念が高まっています。現地調査では、基準値を超える鉛やヒ素が検出され、周辺住民の健康被害の可能性も指摘されています。 今回の事例では、廃棄物処理業者「東関東リサイクル株式会社」が関与している疑いが強まり、茨城県警はこの業者の違法行為を摘発し、関係者を逮捕しました。また、不法投棄現場のうち土浦市郊外では約100トンもの廃棄物が確認されており、これらの撤去には県と環境省の連携が求められています。 2010年代には、茨城県北部で新たな廃棄物不法投棄問題が浮上しました。日立市郊外では、化学工場から出た廃液が山間部の地下水系に流入し、一部の住民に健康被害が報告されました。この事例では、地元企業「北関東ケミカル」が廃液処理の不備で行政指導を受けています。また、鹿嶋市では2015年に廃棄物の違法処理業者が摘発され、数万トン規模の産業廃棄物が確認されました。これにより、廃棄物処理施設の許認可基準が見直されました。 2020年代に入ると、茨城県の廃棄物不法投棄問題はさらに複雑化しました。つくば市近郊では新たに電子廃棄物の不法投棄が発覚し、約200トンの廃基板や使用済みバッテリーが発見されました。これらにはリチウムや鉛、カドミウムなどが含まれ、リサイクル技術が進む一方で違法業者による投棄が問題視されています。特に「茨城クリーンサービス株式会社」が関与したケースでは、海外への不正輸出も疑われています。 茨城県は、AIを活用した廃棄物追跡システム「EcoTrack2025」を導入し、不正行為の早期発見に努めています。また、鹿嶋市では監視ドローンによる廃棄物の巡回監視を開始し、投棄の現場を特定する取り組みを強化しました。一方で、撤去作業には2023年度だけで約5億円の予算が投入され、財政的負担が増加しています。 これらの取り組みにより、地域の環境保全と住民の安全を確保し、不法投棄問題の根本的な解決を目指しています。
The History of the Ehime Blend and Its Current Status in the 2020s
The History of the Ehime Blend and Its Current Status in the 2020s Located on the coast of the Seto Inland Sea, Ehime Prefecture began implementing its own unique environmental measures to prevent water pollution at an early stage. In particular, the “Ehime Blend”—developed as a community-based water purification technology—is a culture solution created by the Prefectural Industrial Technology Center by combining microorganisms such as yeast, lactic acid bacteria, and natto bacteria. Developed in the early 2000s, "Ehime Blend" was adopted primarily by food processing companies and fisheries businesses within the prefecture, where its effectiveness in reducing sludge and purifying wastewater was demonstrated. The first demonstration experiment was conducted in 2000 at a food processing cooperative in Yawatahama City. It reduced sludge generation in the wastewater treatment process by 30–40% and achieved annual cost savings of approximately 7.72 million yen. It also suppressed odors during the composting process, leading to increased demand from nearby farmers and yielding other community-focused benefits. This initiative attracted attention throughout Ehime Prefecture and marked a significant step toward promoting Ehime’s environmental technologies and industrial development. Widespread Adoption and Evolution in the 2020s As the 2020s began, the scope of application for “Ehime Blend” expanded further, with its adoption progressing in the food processing and fisheries industries across the prefecture, including in Matsuyama City and Uwajima City. At a food processing company in Matsuyama City, the use of “Ehime Blend” in the wastewater treatment process reduced sludge generation by 35% and achieved annual cost savings of approximately 8 million yen. Additionally, a seafood processing company in Uwajima City has successfully purified wastewater and suppressed odors, contributing to improved coexistence with local residents. Applications in the agricultural sector are also progressing. An agricultural corporation in Seiyo City uses "Ehime Blend" in its compost production process. This has significantly reduced odors, leading to a 20% increase in demand for compost from neighboring farmers and generating approximately 5 million yen in additional annual revenue. Balancing Environmental Conservation and Economic Benefits The environmental technology provided by "Ehime Blend" has yielded results for many companies in Ehime Prefecture in reducing wastewater treatment costs and suppressing sludge generation, thereby contributing to the reduction of environmental impact. Specific results include an average reduction in sludge of 30–40% and annual cost savings of 5 to 8 million yen, making it an indispensable environmental technology for the local industry. Future Prospects Ehime Prefecture continues to conduct research and development on “Ehime Blend” with the aim of further industrial applications and widespread adoption. In the agricultural sector, it is expected to be used as a soil conditioner and as an odor suppressant in the livestock industry. The prefecture is also strengthening collaboration with companies both within and outside the prefecture, continuing efforts to reduce environmental impact through the advancement and dissemination of this technology. In this way, through more than 20 years of technological accumulation and application, "Ehime Blend" plays a vital role in Ehime Prefecture’s environmental conservation and industrial promotion, continuing to make significant contributions to the sustainable development of the local economy and natural environment.
愛媛ブレンド開発の歴史と2020年代の現状
愛媛ブレンド開発の歴史と2020年代の現状 愛媛県は瀬戸内海沿岸に位置し、水質汚濁防止のための独自の環境対策に早くから着手してきました。特に、地域密着型の水質浄化技術として開発された「愛媛ブレンド」は、県工業技術センターが酵母菌、乳酸菌、納豆菌といった微生物を組み合わせて生み出した培養液です。2000年代初頭に開発されたこの「愛媛ブレンド」は、県内の食品加工企業や水産業者を中心に導入され、汚泥削減や排水の浄化といった効果が実証されました。 最初の実証実験は2000年に八幡浜市の食品加工組合で行われ、排水処理工程における汚泥発生量が30～40%削減されるとともに、年間約772万円のコスト削減を達成。堆肥化工程でも臭気を抑制し、周辺農家の需要が増加するなど、地域に密着した成果が得られました。この取り組みは愛媛県内での注目を集め、愛媛の環境技術と産業振興に寄与する大きな一歩となりました。 2020年代における普及と進化 2020年代に入ると、「愛媛ブレンド」の活用範囲はさらに広がり、松山市や宇和島市など県内の食品加工や水産業での導入が進みました。松山市の食品加工企業では、排水処理工程に「愛媛ブレンド」を用いることで、汚泥発生量が35%削減され、年間約800万円のコスト削減が達成されています。また、宇和島市の水産加工企業でも、排水の浄化と悪臭の抑制に成功し、地元住民との共存環境の向上に貢献しています。 また、農業分野での応用も進展しており、西予市の農業法人では堆肥製造過程に「愛媛ブレンド」を使用。これにより悪臭が大幅に軽減され、周辺農家からの堆肥需要が20%増加し、年間約500万円の売上増加を実現しました。 環境保全と経済効果の両立 「愛媛ブレンド」による環境技術は、愛媛県内の多くの企業で排水処理コストの削減や汚泥の発生抑制に成果をもたらし、環境負荷の低減にも寄与しています。具体的な成果としては、平均して30～40%の汚泥削減、年間500万～800万円のコスト削減が報告され、地元産業界にとって欠かせない環境技術となっています。 今後の展望 愛媛県は「愛媛ブレンド」を更なる産業応用と普及を目指して研究開発を継続し、農業分野では土壌改良剤や畜産業の臭気抑制材としての利用が期待されています。県内外の企業との連携も強化し、技術の発展と普及を通じて環境負荷低減の取り組みが続けられています。 このように、「愛媛ブレンド」は、20年以上にわたる技術の積み重ねと応用を通して、愛媛県の環境保全と産業振興において重要な役割を担い、地域の経済と自然環境の持続的発展に大きく貢献し続けています。
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
### History and Current Status of the Waste-to-Energy Facility in Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture – From November 1997 to the 2020s
### History and Current Status of the Waste-to-Energy Facility in Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture – From November 1997 to the 2020s #### Introduction in 1997 In November 1997, Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture, began trial operations of a waste-to-energy facility with the aim of reducing environmental impact. Utilizing subsidies from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), the facility was equipped with two incinerators for processing industrial and household waste. It adopted a system where, out of a daily power generation capacity of 2,400 kilowatts, 1,200 kilowatts were sold as surplus electricity. This initiative was part of “thermal recycling,” which utilizes incineration heat, and garnered attention as a new approach to reusing waste as a resource. At the time, Kanuma City was actively engaged in recycling initiatives, such as promoting RDF (refuse-derived fuel), and was laying the groundwork for the growth of its environmental business sector. Although uncertainties regarding electricity sales prices and profitability were cited as challenges in the early stages, the project was expected to expand by leveraging the benefits of the investment in the power generation equipment. #### Developments in the 2000s In the 2000s, as policies to promote waste resource recovery advanced throughout Japan, Kanuma City’s waste-to-energy facility also began to play a vital role as a regional recycling hub. During this period, the city strengthened cooperation with neighboring municipalities to accept waste from a wider area, while simultaneously working to increase power generation and enhance exhaust gas treatment capacity. Additionally, aiming to streamline facility operations, the city introduced ICT (Information and Communications Technology) and established a system for managing data on waste collection and processing. This led to reduced operating costs and improved transparency in waste management. Furthermore, active efforts were made to raise citizens’ environmental awareness through school education and local events. #### Improvements from 2015 to 2016 After approximately 20 years of operation, the waste-to-energy facility had begun to show signs of aging. In 2015, a major equipment upgrade project was carried out, and by replacing the incinerators and exhaust gas treatment equipment, the facility’s efficiency was improved and its service life extended. This renovation project, supported by the Ministry of the Environment, was completed in March 2016. The upgraded facility incorporates the latest exhaust gas treatment technology, achieving reductions in dioxin emissions and improvements in energy efficiency. #### Current Situation in the 2020s In the 2020s, Kanuma City formulated the “5th Kanuma City Basic Environmental Plan,” setting a goal to achieve a decarbonized society by 2050. This plan identifies the local production and consumption of renewable energy and the promotion of energy businesses as key pillars. However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, citizens’ lifestyles have changed, and waste generation remains high. Consequently, Kanuma City is working to promote the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and strengthen proper waste sorting, striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with waste disposal. Furthermore, the city is exploring the introduction of new technologies and policies to reduce waste disposal costs while enhancing the sustainability of the region. --- In this way, Kanuma City in Tochigi Prefecture has continued to evolve its waste-to-energy facility—which began trial operations in November 1997—by enhancing efficiency and strengthening regional collaboration in the 2000s. Following the completion of renovation work in March 2016, the city has set a vision for a decarbonized society in the 2020s and remains at the forefront of waste-to-energy utilization.
### 栃木県鹿沼市におけるごみ発電施設の歴史と現状 - 1997年11月から2020年代まで
### 栃木県鹿沼市におけるごみ発電施設の歴史と現状 - 1997年11月から2020年代まで #### 1997年の導入 栃木県鹿沼市では、環境負荷の低減を目的として、1997年11月にごみ発電施設の試運転を開始しました。この施設は、通産省からの補助金を活用し、産業廃棄物と家庭系廃棄物を処理するための二つの焼却炉を備え、1日あたり2400キロワットの発電能力を持つうち、1200キロワットを余剰電力として売電する仕組みを採用しました。これは、焼却熱を利用した「サーマルリサイクル」の一環であり、廃棄物を資源として再活用する新たな取り組みとして注目を集めました。 当時、鹿沼市はRDF（固形燃料化）の推進など、リサイクル事業にも積極的に取り組み、環境ビジネスの成長基盤を整備していました。初期段階では、売電価格の不確定や採算性が課題として挙げられましたが、発電機への投資のメリットを活かし、事業の拡大が期待されていました。 #### 2000年代の展開 2000年代には、日本全体で廃棄物の再資源化を促進する政策が進む中、鹿沼市のごみ発電施設も地域のリサイクル拠点として重要な役割を担うようになりました。この時期、市では周辺自治体との連携を強化し、より広範囲からの廃棄物受け入れを進める一方で、発電量の向上と排出ガス処理能力の強化を図りました。 また、施設運営の効率化を目指してICT（情報通信技術）を導入し、廃棄物収集や処理のデータ管理を行うシステムを構築。これにより、運営コストの削減と廃棄物処理の透明性向上が実現しました。さらに、学校教育や地域イベントを通じて市民の環境意識を高める取り組みが積極的に行われました。 #### 2015年から2016年の改良 ごみ発電施設は約20年の稼働を経て老朽化が進行。2015年には基幹的設備改良事業が行われ、焼却炉や排ガス処理装置の更新により、施設の効率向上と長寿命化が図られました。この改良工事は環境省の支援を受け、2016年3月に完了しました。更新後の施設は、最新の排出ガス処理技術を導入し、ダイオキシン排出量の削減やエネルギー効率の向上が実現されています。 #### 2020年代の現状 2020年代に入ると、鹿沼市は「第5次鹿沼市環境基本計画」を策定し、2050年までに脱炭素社会の実現を目指す目標を掲げました。この計画では、再生可能エネルギーの地産地消や、エネルギービジネスの推進が重要な柱とされています。しかし、新型コロナウイルス感染症の影響で、市民のライフスタイルが変化し、ごみの排出量は依然として高止まりしています。 そのため、鹿沼市は3R（リデュース、リユース、リサイクル）の普及や適切な分別の強化に取り組み、ごみ処理に伴う温室効果ガス排出量の削減に努めています。また、市はごみ処理コストを削減しつつ、地域の持続可能性を高めるため、新たな技術や政策の導入を模索しています。 --- このように、栃木県鹿沼市は1997年11月に試運転を開始したごみ発電施設の取り組みを進化させながら、2000年代には効率化と地域連携を強化し、2016年3月の改良工事完了を経て、2020年代には脱炭素社会を目指すビジョンを掲げ、廃棄物エネルギー活用の最前線に立ち続けています。
39-"Groundwater Pollution Issues in Zama City"-October 1997-Environmental News
39-"Groundwater Pollution Issues in Zama City"-October 1997-Environmental News In Japan, groundwater pollution has become a serious issue due to industrialization and urbanization. Particularly, harmful substances from factories and waste treatment facilities are seeping into groundwater, affecting the safety of drinking water and the environment in various regions. Groundwater is a vital resource in many areas, and its contamination poses a significant threat to local communities. In Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, a regulation aimed at groundwater conservation is being discussed. Zama City has abundant groundwater resources, much of which is used for drinking water. However, there are growing concerns about the deterioration of groundwater quality due to recent industrialization and urban development. As a result, a groundwater conservation ordinance has been proposed, and discussions are underway between local residents and related organizations. Groundwater pollution has various causes, with industrial waste, pesticides, and household wastewater being the main contributors. In Zama City, industrial wastewater and improper waste disposal are also believed to be contributing factors to groundwater pollution. However, identifying the specific causes of groundwater pollution is challenging, and further detailed investigations are necessary to pinpoint the sources of pollution and establish accountability. Groundwater pollution is not just a local issue but one that can affect a wider region. Therefore, cooperation with neighboring municipalities and companies is essential. To preserve groundwater, information sharing and collaboration across regions are required. Additionally, measures such as groundwater monitoring, pollution prevention, and contamination cleanup are being considered. Groundwater pollution in Japan is a major issue concerning the safety of regional water resources and environmental protection. In Zama City, a groundwater conservation ordinance is being considered, but to enhance its effectiveness, it is crucial to identify the causes of pollution and foster regional cooperation. Groundwater is an important resource for future generations, and sustainable efforts to protect it are necessary.
39-"Groundwater Pollution Issues in Zama City"-October 1997-Environmental News
39-"Groundwater Pollution Issues in Zama City"-October 1997-Environmental News In Japan, groundwater pollution has become a serious issue due to industrialization and urbanization. Particularly, harmful substances from factories and waste treatment facilities are seeping into groundwater, affecting the safety of drinking water and the environment in various regions. Groundwater is a vital resource in many areas, and its contamination poses a significant threat to local communities. In Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, a regulation aimed at groundwater conservation is being discussed. Zama City has abundant groundwater resources, much of which is used for drinking water. However, there are growing concerns about the deterioration of groundwater quality due to recent industrialization and urban development. As a result, a groundwater conservation ordinance has been proposed, and discussions are underway between local residents and related organizations. Groundwater pollution has various causes, with industrial waste, pesticides, and household wastewater being the main contributors. In Zama City, industrial wastewater and improper waste disposal are also believed to be contributing factors to groundwater pollution. However, identifying the specific causes of groundwater pollution is challenging, and further detailed investigations are necessary to pinpoint the sources of pollution and establish accountability. Groundwater pollution is not just a local issue but one that can affect a wider region. Therefore, cooperation with neighboring municipalities and companies is essential. To preserve groundwater, information sharing and collaboration across regions are required. Additionally, measures such as groundwater monitoring, pollution prevention, and contamination cleanup are being considered. Groundwater pollution in Japan is a major issue concerning the safety of regional water resources and environmental protection. In Zama City, a groundwater conservation ordinance is being considered, but to enhance its effectiveness, it is crucial to identify the causes of pollution and foster regional cooperation. Groundwater is an important resource for future generations, and sustainable efforts to protect it are necessary.
Monday, April 6, 2026
Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture – Groundwater Contamination Due to Illegal Dumping – April 1996
Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture – Groundwater Contamination Due to Illegal Dumping – April 1996 In 1996, groundwater contamination worsened due to illegal dumping in the vicinity of Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture. In this area, some industrial waste disposal companies illegally buried hazardous waste without proper treatment in order to cut costs. The waste contained heavy metals such as cadmium (detected at 10 times the environmental standard) and hexavalent chromium (detected at more than 5 times the standard), as well as chemical solvents such as trichloroethylene (detected at 15 times the standard). These substances seeped into the groundwater and contaminated the drinking water of nearby residents. In particular, contamination exceeding regulatory limits was discovered in the water supply system of an elementary school, and approximately 150 children reported health issues such as gastrointestinal disorders and fatigue. To address this problem, Kiryu City invested approximately 2.5 billion yen annually in total project costs, beginning the removal of contaminated water using groundwater pumps and the installation of purification equipment utilizing activated carbon filters. A plan was established to treat 75 percent of the contaminated water within three years. Additionally, a residents’ movement gained momentum, leading to the formation of the “Kiryu Environmental Conservation Association,” which closely monitored and held waste disposal companies and Kiryu City Hall accountable. During this process, “Kiryu Industrial Waste Disposal Co., Ltd.,” one of the companies involved in illegal dumping, was identified and ordered to pay a fine of 300 million yen and cover a portion (approximately 1 billion yen) of the cleanup costs. In response to this incident, Gunma Prefecture reviewed its waste management system and strengthened monitoring throughout the prefecture. Waste disposal companies were required to introduce transport vehicles equipped with tracking systems. Furthermore, with national support, the “Industrial Waste Tracking System” was launched, ensuring strict adherence to proper disposal regulations. However, it is estimated that complete remediation of the groundwater contamination will take approximately 20 years, and educational programs have been introduced among local residents to raise environmental awareness. This issue served as a crucial catalyst for raising public awareness of the risks posed by inadequate waste management, while also promoting the strengthening of environmental laws and the improvement of waste treatment technologies.
群馬県桐生市 - 不法投棄による地下水汚染 - 1996年4月
群馬県桐生市 - 不法投棄による地下水汚染 - 1996年4月 1996年、群馬県桐生市周辺で発生した不法投棄が原因で地下水汚染が深刻化しました。この地域では、一部の産業廃棄物処理業者がコスト削減を目的に、適切な処理を行わずに有害廃棄物を不法に埋め立てました。廃棄物には、カドミウム（環境基準の10倍検出）や六価クロム（基準の5倍以上検出）といった重金属、さらにはトリクロロエチレン（基準の15倍検出）などの化学溶剤が含まれており、これらが地下水に浸透して周辺住民の飲料水を汚染しました。 特に、小学校の給水設備で基準値を超える汚染が発見され、約150人の児童が胃腸障害や倦怠感などの健康被害を訴えました。この問題に対応するため、桐生市は総事業費として年間約25億円を投じ、地下水ポンプによる汚染水の除去と、活性炭フィルターを用いた浄化設備の設置を開始。3年間で汚染水の75パーセントを処理する計画が立てられました。 また、住民運動が活発化し、「桐生環境保全の会」が結成され、廃棄物処理業者や桐生市役所に対し厳しい監視と責任追及を行いました。この中で、不法投棄に関与していた企業の一つである「桐生産業廃棄物処理株式会社」が特定され、罰金3億円と浄化費用の一部（約10億円）の負担を命じられました。 この事件を契機に、群馬県は廃棄物管理体制を見直し、県内全域での監視体制を強化。廃棄物処理業者には追跡システムを搭載した輸送車両の導入が義務化されました。また、国の支援を受けて「産業廃棄物追跡制度」の運用が開始され、適切な処理ルールが徹底されるようになりました。 しかし、地下水汚染の完全な浄化には約20年を要するとの見通しが立てられており、地域住民の間では環境意識を高めるための教育プログラムが導入されています。この問題は、廃棄物処理の不備がもたらすリスクを社会に認識させると同時に、環境法令の強化と廃棄物処理技術の向上を促進する重要な契機となりました。
Mr. Masuyama – April 1995
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Mr. Masuyama is leading the "Making Paper from Grass" project in the Environmental Club. This project aims to curb deforestation by manufacturing paper using non-wood pulp materials (such as kenaf and cogon grass) in order to protect forest resources and address the growing demand for paper and pulp. He is also promoting the development of environmental education programs and participation in the acid rain monitoring network. Mr. Masuyama aims to revitalize the local community through ecotourism and to widely communicate the importance of environmental protection. As part of the club's activities, he works to promote the use of paper made from non-wood pulp materials, thereby contributing to the reduction of deforestation caused by paper consumption.
増山さん-1995年4月
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増山さんは、環境クラブで「草から紙をつくる」プロジェクトを主導しています。このプロジェクトは、森林資源の保護と紙やパルプの需要増加に対応するため、非木材バルプ材（ケナフやコゴン草など）を使用して紙を製造し、森林伐採を抑制することを目指しています。また、環境教育プログラムの開発や酸性雨測定ネットワークの参加を促進しています。増山さんは、エコツーリズムを通じて地域の活性化を図り、環境保護の重要性を広く伝えることを目指しています。クラブの活動の一環として、非木材バルプ材から作られた紙の普及に努め、紙の消費による森林伐採の削減に貢献しています。
Kenichi Horie - June 1995
Kenichi Horie is an active environmental advocate who, in an effort to raise awareness of the importance of renewable energy, will attempt a solo, non-stop trans-Pacific crossing next March aboard the "MALT'S Mermaid," a vessel powered by solar energy. His efforts serve as a fine example of how individuals can tackle environmental issues, with the goal of leaving a better Earth for future generations. Mr. Horie's challenge has attracted global attention, and if successful, it is expected to have a significant impact on the widespread adoption of renewable energy.
堀江謙一-1995年6月
堀江謙一氏は、環境保護活動に積極的に取り組む人物であり、再生可能エネルギーの重要性を広めるため、来年3月にソーラーパワーを利用した「MALT'Sマーメイド号」での単独無寄港太平洋横断航海に挑戦します。彼の活動は、個人が環境問題にどのように取り組むべきかを示す良い例であり、未来世代により良い地球を残すことを目指しています。堀江氏の挑戦は、世界中から注目され、成功すれば再生可能エネルギーの普及に大きな影響を与えることが期待されています。
Sunday, April 5, 2026
Melting of Siberian Permafrost—January 2007 to the 2020s
Situation in January 2007
As of 2007, permafrost was melting in the Siberian region of Russia. This melting had the potential to affect 65% of an area spanning approximately 20 million square kilometers across the entire Arctic Circle. Permafrost layers contain approximately 1,400 gigatons of carbon, and there were concerns that as thawing progressed, it could lead to the release of about 5 billion tons of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) annually. Additionally, for large corporations such as Norilsk Nickel, facility damage caused by ground subsidence had become a serious challenge.
Developments in the 2010s
By the 2010s, the melting of Siberian permafrost had become more pronounced due to the acceleration of global warming. In particular, in 2016, a mysterious giant crater was discovered on the Yamal Peninsula, attributed to a gas explosion caused by thawing. In this region, the pressure of methane gas accumulated underground increased, and its explosive release formed multiple craters exceeding 30 meters in diameter.
Furthermore, in 2019, the average temperature across Siberia was approximately 5°C higher than normal, accelerating the surface thaw of the permafrost. Over the decade of the 2010s, annual greenhouse gas emissions from permafrost thaw reached 600 million tons of CO₂ equivalent, creating a "feedback loop" that further accelerated global warming.
At the same time, forest fires increased, and in 2019, approximately 150,000 square kilometers of forest were burned in Siberia. Carbon dioxide emissions from these fires amounted to about 350 million tons, making Siberia one of the major sources of emissions contributing to global warming.
Accelerating Thaw in the 2020s
In May 2020, ground subsidence caused by permafrost thaw near Norilsk led to the collapse of an oil storage tank, spilling approximately 21,000 tons of diesel fuel into the Ambarnaia River. The environmental cleanup costs from this accident are estimated at over $2 billion, making it the largest oil spill in the history of the Russian Arctic.
In June of the same year, a record-breaking 38.0°C—the highest temperature ever recorded in the Arctic—was recorded in Verkhoyansk, Siberia, and the extreme heat caused permafrost to thaw over an even wider area. As a result, it is predicted that approximately 7 billion tons of CO₂ equivalent greenhouse gases will be released annually.
Furthermore, by 2024, the Batagaika Crater in Siberia (commonly known as the "Gateway to Hell") had expanded at a rate of approximately 1 million cubic meters per year, reaching an area of about 0.8 square kilometers. This crater symbolizes rapid changes in the landscape while releasing large amounts of methane gas.
Conclusion and International Challenges
Throughout the 2010s, the thawing of Siberian permafrost garnered international attention as a symbol of climate change in the Arctic, and its impacts have become even more severe in the 2020s. The release of 1,400 gigatons of carbon trapped in permafrost into the atmosphere has the potential to accelerate global warming.
Furthermore, damage to Siberian infrastructure has resulted in direct economic losses, with Norilsk Nickel reporting damages amounting to billions of dollars. Meanwhile, the impact of environmental changes across the entire Arctic—such as wildfires and gas explosions—on humanity is immeasurable.
To address this, it is necessary to establish more than 50 new monitoring stations in the Siberian region by 2025 and proceed with the collection of detailed data on gas emissions. Policies to strengthen international CO₂ reduction targets and accelerate the transition to renewable energy are essential. As the thawing of permafrost is a critical issue that will determine the state of the global environment over the coming decades, sustained international cooperation is required.
シベリアの永久凍土融解-2007年1月から2020年代まで
2007年1月の状況
ロシアのシベリア地域では、2007年時点で永久凍土の融解が進行していました。この融解は、北極圏全体の約2000万平方キロメートルに広がるエリアの65%に影響を及ぼす可能性がありました。永久凍土層には約1400ギガトンの炭素が閉じ込められており、融解が進むことで年間約50億トンのメタン（CH₄）や二酸化炭素（CO₂）が放出されるリスクが懸念されました。また、ノリリスク・ニッケル社などの大規模企業にとって、地盤沈下による施設破損が深刻な課題となっていました。
2010年代の進展
2010年代に入ると、地球温暖化の加速によりシベリアの永久凍土融解が顕著化しました。特に2016年、ヤマル半島で謎の巨大クレーターが発見され、融解に伴うガス爆発が原因とされました。この地域では地下に蓄積されたメタンガスの圧力が高まり、爆発的に放出されたことで直径30メートルを超えるクレーターが複数形成されています。
また、2019年にはシベリア全体の平均気温が通常よりも約5℃高く、これが永久凍土層の表面融解を加速。2010年代の10年間で、年間の永久凍土融解による温室効果ガス排出量はCO₂換算で6億トンに達し、これがさらに温暖化を加速させる「フィードバックループ」を形成しました。
同時に森林火災も増加し、2019年にはシベリアで約150000平方キロメートルの森林が焼失。この火災による二酸化炭素の放出量は約3.5億トンに上り、シベリアは地球温暖化における主要な放出源の一つとなりました。
2020年代の加速する融解
2020年5月、ノリリスク近郊で永久凍土の融解による地盤沈下が石油貯蔵タンクの倒壊を招き、約21000トンのディーゼル燃料がアンバルナヤ川に流出しました。この事故による環境復旧費用は20億ドル以上と推定され、ロシア北極圏で史上最大規模の石油流出事故となりました。
同年6月には、シベリアのヴェルホヤンスクで北極圏として過去最高の38.0℃が記録され、異常高温の影響でさらに広範囲の永久凍土が融解。これにより、年間約70億トンのCO₂換算の温室効果ガスが放出されると予測されています。
また、2024年には、シベリアのバタガイカ・クレーター（通称「地獄の門」）が年間約100万立方メートルの速度で拡大し、その面積は約0.8平方キロメートルに達しました。このクレーターは、大量のメタンガスを放出する一方で、地形の急激な変化を象徴しています。
結論と国際的な課題
2010年代を通じて、シベリアの永久凍土融解は北極圏の気候変動の象徴として国際的な注目を集め、2020年代にその影響はさらに深刻化しています。永久凍土に閉じ込められた1400ギガトンの炭素が大気中に放出されることで、地球全体の気温上昇を加速させる可能性があります。
また、シベリアのインフラ被害は直接的な経済損失を伴い、ノリリスク・ニッケル社の損害額は数十億ドルに達しました。一方で、森林火災やガス爆発など、北極圏全体の環境変化が人類に与える影響は計り知れません。
これに対処するためには、2025年までにシベリア地域のモニタリング施設を50カ所以上新設し、ガス放出量の詳細なデータ収集を進めることが求められています。国際的なCO₂削減目標の強化や、再生可能エネルギーへの転換を加速させる政策が不可欠です。永久凍土融解は、今後数十年の地球環境を左右する重大な課題として、持続的な国際的協力が必要とされています。
The Evolution and Current State of Food Waste Recycling - August 1994
The 1990s: The Dawn of Food Waste Recycling
The total volume of food waste in the 1990s was estimated at approximately 25 million tons per year, and it was on an upward trend against the backdrop of the bubble economy of the late 1980s [nihon-u.ac.jp]. The generation of food waste increased alongside the expansion of the foodservice and food processing industries, and the limits of disposal capacity became a particular problem in urban areas. During this period, most food waste was incinerated or landfilled, although attempts at composting and converting it into livestock feed had begun in some areas. In fiscal year 1996, the total volume of food waste reached 3.447 million tons, while food scraps and leftovers amounted to approximately 11 million tons. Food manufacturers began initiatives to reduce food waste generated during production and to promote recycling, such as utilizing coffee grounds in mushroom cultivation [env.go.jp].
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Sources
- Nihon University: History of Food Waste [nihon-u.ac.jp]
- Ministry of the Environment: Trends in Food Waste [env.go.jp]
- Consumer Affairs Agency: Statistical Data on Food Waste [caa.go.jp]
- Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries: Trends in Food Recycling [maff.go.jp]
食品廃棄物リサイクルの変遷と現状 - 1994年8月
1990年代：食品廃棄物リサイクルの黎明期
食品廃棄物の総量は1990年代には年間約2,500万トンと推定されており、1980年代後半のバブル経済期を背景に増加傾向にあった【nihon-u.ac.jp】。食品廃棄物の発生は、外食産業や食品加工業の拡大とともに進み、特に都市部では処理能力の限界が問題となっていた。この時期、食品廃棄物のほとんどは焼却または埋め立て処分されていたが、堆肥化や家畜飼料化の試みが一部で始まっていた。1996年度の食品廃棄物総量は344万7,000トンに達し、生ゴミや残飯は1,100万トン規模となった。食品メーカーでは、製造過程で発生する食品廃棄物の削減や、コーヒー豆の搾りかすを菌床栽培に活用するなど、循環利用の取り組みが始まった【env.go.jp】。
...
情報源
- 日本大学：食品廃棄物の歴史【nihon-u.ac.jp】
- 環境省：食品廃棄物の推移【env.go.jp】
- 消費者庁：食品廃棄物の統計データ【caa.go.jp】
- 農林水産省：食品リサイクルの動向【maff.go.jp】
Saturday, April 4, 2026
The Threat of Hazardous Waste Flowing into Nagoya Port - April 1995
It was discovered that hazardous waste from overseas had been illegally imported into Nagoya Port in Aichi Prefecture. The imported waste contained hazardous substances such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and heavy metals, and was being stored illegally without undergoing proper domestic treatment. This issue suggests that the illegal importation may have been part of an organized operation involving multiple businesses.
The Ministry of the Environment and Aichi Prefecture conducted a joint investigation, identified the importers, and imposed fines. Additionally, to prevent the inflow of hazardous waste into Nagoya Port, customs procedures and import monitoring systems are being tightened. Furthermore, a policy has been established to strengthen international cooperation with the aim of ensuring proper waste disposal.
This incident has highlighted the problems associated with the global trade in waste, and discussions are underway regarding the need to strengthen regulations both domestically and internationally.
Sources:
- [Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes: Analysis of Enforcement Cases](https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jswmepac/18/0/18_0_84/_pdf)
- [History of the Basel Convention](https://www.ne.jp/asahi/kagaku/pico/basel/basel_basics.html)
名古屋港に流れ込む有害廃棄物の脅威 - 1995年4月
愛知県名古屋港で、海外からの有害廃棄物が違法に輸入されていたことが発覚しました。輸入された廃棄物にはPCB（ポリ塩化ビフェニル）や重金属などの有害物質が含まれており、国内での適切な処理がされないまま不法に保管されていました。この問題は、違法輸入の経路が複数の業者にわたる組織的なものである可能性を示唆しています。
環境省と愛知県は共同で調査を進めるとともに、輸入を行った業者を摘発し、罰金を科しました。また、名古屋港では有害廃棄物の流入を防ぐため、通関手続きや輸入監視体制の厳格化が進められています。さらに、廃棄物処理の適正化を目指して国際的な協力を強化する方針も打ち出されました。
この事件は、グローバルな廃棄物取引の問題を浮き彫りにし、国内外での規制強化の必要性が議論されています。
情報源:
- [有害廃棄物等の越境移動：摘発事例の検討](https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jswmepac/18/0/18_0_84/_pdf)
- [バーゼル条約の経緯](https://www.ne.jp/asahi/kagaku/pico/basel/basel_basics.html)
"Ecomoku," an online retailer of eco-friendly wood products, is operated by Sakuma Jinzai Co., Ltd., which was founded in 1905.
Since its launch in 2003, Ecomoku has steadily increased its sales and serves as an eco-friendly wood shop connecting end users with products.
● Products well-suited for online sales.
Sakuma Lumber was founded by its first-generation owner, a wood turner, and soon began processing and selling lumber.
Later, the company developed its own plywood for die-cutting—essential for manufacturing paper containers such as confectionery boxes—and now boasts the top market share in Japan in this field.
"The base of the die must be made of wood," says Kenji Sakuma, the fourth-generation owner.
Paper containers made of board or corrugated cardboard are cut and assembled by pressing the paper against a die with a blade fixed in the cutting area.
If the base that holds the blade is made of plastic, the blade will pop out under pressure.
For paper containers, creating a metal die is not cost-effective.
Sakuma Lumber's plywood for die-cutting, which alternates the grain direction of the wood fibers, offers superior performance by securing the blade from all four sides.
"Our concept is product development that leverages the unique properties of wood.
When we launched Ecomoku, one of our goals was to tap into new demand." The third-generation owner passed away unexpectedly due to illness, and Kenji Sakuma, the fourth-generation owner, took over the company at the age of 20.
Having grown up surrounded by wood, Sakuma says, "I rebelled against being called the fourth-generation head since childhood, so I left home to work for a condominium developer." He explains that while selling reinforced concrete condominiums, he came to appreciate the merits of wood once again.
When Sakuma took over in 1998, the company's financial situation was quite dire, with debt mounting, but Sakuma—who loved wood and had accumulated knowledge about it—was determined to find a way to sell it.
"It was just when creating websites was becoming popular.
If we were going to build a website, we had to highlight something that set us apart from other companies.
I thought about what kind of products would be suitable for selling online."
Wood is a living thing.
Even within the same species, the grain varies depending on where the tree grew.
Solid wood, which faithfully reflects those differences, is something you really want customers to touch and select in person.
After trying various options, I decided to handle environmentally friendly wood-based materials such as engineered wood and plywood.
"To put it bluntly, I believe that compared to materials derived from fossil fuels, like plastic, or metals—which are underground resources—any type of wood has a lower environmental impact.
However, we must ensure that our products do not contribute to environmental destruction. That's why we handle products made from wood sourced through a system where trees are replanted after being cut, ensuring no waste."
● Transparency is key.
All the products handled by Ecomoku were personally sourced by Mr. Sakuma.
In the beginning, even when I asked manufacturers about the origin of the wood or the type of adhesive used, I often didn't receive an immediate response.
We do not handle products for which information is not disclosed.
One of Ecomoku's defining features is that we clearly disclose information on every product, including its origin, the adhesives used, and the criteria for selection.
Domestic products include engineered wood and plywood made from cedar, cypress, and larch produced through afforestation.
We also carry products made from thinned timber and sawmill byproducts.
Since we cannot sustain our business with domestic timber alone, we also handle imported timber; however, we select products that are FSC-certified or produced through planned afforestation, focusing on distinctive items such as those made from small-diameter wood.
Furthermore, we have added products to our lineup made from parts of plants other than wood—such as Koryan boards—that were traditionally discarded.
Additionally, even if we are confident a product will sell well, we will not carry it if we have doubts about its environmental considerations.
Other companies already carry such products, and if we were to blur our selection criteria, Ecomoku would lose both its credibility and its uniqueness.
Eighty percent of our customers are individual consumers.
Although they account for only 20% of our sales, individual consumers use wood for a wide variety of purposes.
In addition to furniture, there are users who handcraft audio boxes for their cars—a use Sakuma says he "didn't even know existed."
Interactions with these customers have influenced product selection.
MDF (New Zealand wood-based board) compliant with the Green Procurement Law is the top seller among individual users, while white birch plywood (from Finland) is the best seller among professional users.
These are described as environmentally conscious products that retain the natural texture of wood.
The current goal is to increase this segment to 10% of annual sales.
In addition to selecting products with low environmental impact and disclosing information, Ecomoku is committed to high processing precision and affordability.
This is where the know-how accumulated by Sakuma Lumber comes into play.
Furthermore, for Ecomoku, a new business venture, they adopted a system with no inventory.
Orders are placed—including for processing—only after receiving a customer's order.
This offers the advantage of being able to respond meticulously to customer requests.
What is crucial here is having extensive product knowledge and the ability to make proposals tailored to specific requests.
As the company has expanded its product lineup, it has also attracted attention from manufacturers.
"Major corporations and manufacturers from the Czech Republic have visited us, wanting to hear firsthand accounts from those closest to the end users.
It's gratifying to be viewed in that light," says Sakuma, expressing his sense of accomplishment.
With the aim of "helping more people who rarely come into contact with wood to appreciate its qualities," Sakuma has launched an online shop featuring wooden goods, which has also boosted demand for interior design materials at the store.
A diverse lineup.
The business is growing, and they plan to hire more staff soon.
"We receive inquiries about domestic timber from clients such as major general contractors.
For example, we've supplied wood for wainscoting in hospital hallways." Additionally, at the official shop for the "MOTTAINAI Campaign"—advocated by environmental activist Wangari Maathai and opened in April 2007 (located inside Yoshizuya Tsushima Main Store in Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture)—"Eswood" (a product of Shinwa Timber Products in Gifu Prefecture) made from sustainably harvested domestic cypress was adopted.
Furthermore, for about six months after Ecomoku was launched in October 2003, monthly sales were around 10,000 yen, but after one year, they reached 500,000 yen, and have since grown to ten times that amount.
The company hopes this will account for 5% of Sakuma Lumber's annual sales.
And, of course, reviving lost techniques is no easy task.
Taking all this into account, we look forward to the future of Ecomoku, a unique entity that could be called a "wood eco-shop."
環境配慮部材の木質材料をインターネットを通じて販売する「エコモク」は、明治38年創業の佐久間人材株式会社が運営しています
2003年の開設以来、順調に売上を伸ばすエコモクは、エンドユーザーと製品を結ぶ木材のエコショップとして機能しています。
●ネットで扱うのに適した商材。
佐久間木材は、木挽き職人だった初代によって創業され、ほどなくして木材加工・販売を始めました。
その後、菓子箱などの紙容器の製造に欠かせない抜型用合板を自社開発し、現在はこの分野で国内のトップシェアを誇っています。
「抜型の台は、木でなければ駄目なのです」と4代目の佐久間賢之さんは言います。
板紙あるいは段ボールの紙容器は、切り抜くべき場所に刃を固定した抜型に紙を押し付けて裁断し、組み立てます。
刃を固定する台をプラスチックにすると、圧力で刃が抜けてしまいます。
紙容器の場合、金型を作るのはコスト面で合わないです。
木の繊維の方向を縦横交互にした佐久間木材の抜型用合板は、刃を四方から固定する、優れた性能を備えています。
「木の特性を活かす製品開発が当社のコンセプトです。
エコモクを始めるに当たっては、新たな需要を掘り起こすという目的もありま3代目が病気で思いがけず早くに亡くなり、4代目の佐久間賢之さんは20歳で会社を継ぎました。
木に囲まれて育ち、「子どもの頃から4代目と呼ばれてきたのに反発して、マンションのディベロッパーに就職して家を出ていました」という佐久間さんは、鉄筋コンクリートのマンションを売りながら、木の良さを再認識していたと語ります。
佐久間さんが引き継いだ1998年の時点では、借入金が増える一方で会社の財務状況はかなり悪かったのですが、木が好きで、木の知識を蓄積していた佐久間さんは、なんとか木を売りたいと考えました。
「ちょうどホームページを作るのが流行っていた時期でした。
ホームページを作るからには、他社と何か違うことをアピールしなければならない。
ネット上で売るのに適した商材は何かを考えました」
木は生き物です。
同じ樹種でも、育った地域などによって木目が異なります。
その違いを忠実に反映する無垢材は、実際に触れて選んでほしいものです。
あれこれ試した結果、環境配慮型の集成材、合板などの木質材料を扱うことを決めました。
「極言すれば、プラスチックのような化石燃料由来の素材、地下資源である金属に比べれば、どんな木材でも環境負荷が少ないと思います。
でも、環境破壊につながるものではいけませんので、切ったら植える体制が整っている木を、無駄なく利用している製品を扱っています」
●情報開示がポイント。
エコモクで扱う商材はすべて、佐久間さんが自ら探し出したものです。
当初は、メーカーに木材の産地、接着剤の種類などを問い合わせても、すぐに回答が得られないことが多かったです。
情報開示されていない製品は扱いません。
すべての商品について、産地、使用接着剤、選択のポイントとなった点などの情報を明らかにしているのが、エコモクの特徴でもあります。
国産のものは植林によって生産された杉、ヒノキ、カラマツなどの集成材や合板。
間伐材や製材残材を活用した製品もあります。
国産材だけでは商売が成り立たないので輸入材も扱いますが、FSC認証を受けているものや、計画植林によって生産された木材で、小径木利用などの特徴ある製品を選んでいます。
さらに、高梁（コーリャン）ボードなど、木材以外の植物で従来は廃棄されていた部分から作られたものも、ラインナップに加えています。
また、売れると確信のある製品であっても、環境配慮に疑問があれば扱いません。
そういう製品は他社も扱っており、選択基準を曖昧にするとエコモクの信用も独自性も失います。
顧客の8割は個人ユーザーだという。
売上で言えば2割だが、個人ユーザーは実にさまざまな用途で木材を使っている。
家具のほか、「そういうニーズがあることは知らなかった」と佐久間さんが言うような、自動車に搭載するオーディオボックスを手作りするユーザーもいる。
そうした顧客とのやり取りは、商品の選択にも反映されてきた。
個人ユーザーにはグリーン購入法適合商品のMDF（ニュージーランド産木質ポード）、プロのユーザーにはホワイトバーチ合板（フィンランド産）が一番売れるそうだ。
木の肌合いを備えた環境配慮製品というのだ。
現在の目標は、年商の1割に伸ばすことだ。
環境負荷が低い製品選択、情報開示に加えて、エコモクは加工精度の高さ、安価であることにもこだわっている。
ここに、佐久間木材が蓄積してきたノウハウが活かされている。
また、新規事業であったエコモクに関しては、在庫を持たないシステムを採った。
顧客の注文を受けてから、加工も含めた発注を出す。
これによって、顧客の要望にきめ細かく対応できるというメリットもある。
ここで重要なのは、商品知識が豊富で、要望に応じた提案ができることだろう。
取扱商品を増やしてきたことで、メーカー側からも注目されている。
「エンドユーザーに一番近いところの話を聞きたいという大手企業や、チェコのメーカーが訪ねてきました。
そういうふうに見てもらえるのは嬉しいですね」と佐久間さんは手応えを語る。
木に触れる機会が少ない多くの人々に「もっと木の良さを知ってもらいたい」と、佐久間さんは木の雑貨を集めたオンラインショップことで店舗の内装用需要も伸びている。
多彩なラインナップ。
成長し、近いうちにスタッフを増やす予定だ。
「国産材であることで引き合いがあるのは、大手ゼネコンのようなお客様に。
病院の廊下の腰板に使われたケースなどがあります」 また、07年4月にオープンした、環境活動家ワンガリ・マータイさんが提唱する「MOTTAINAIキャンペーン」のオフィシャルショップ（愛知県津島市・ヨシヅヤ津島本店内）では、国産ヒノキの問伐材を利用したエスウッド（岐阜県・親和木材製品）が採用された。
また、03年10月にエコモクを立ち上げてから半年ほどは、月の売上が1万円程度だったが、1年後には50万円になり、現在はその10倍まで成長。
佐久間木材の年商の5％を占めるように望んでいる。
そして、失われた技術を取り戻すのは容易なことではない。
そうしたことも含めて、木のエコショップとも言うべきユニークな存在であるエコモクに期待したい。
“New Businesses Rooted in Environmental Values”
The Recycling Mine Park (RMP) initiative—which aims to ensure a stable supply of resources while promoting environmental harmony by treating discarded household appliances as "modern-day ore" and utilizing the sites, facilities, and technologies of mines and smelters across the country that have fallen into sharp decline—is finally beginning to take shape as a business venture backed by economic incentives.
"The flame has been reignited in the mountains. We must not let this flame go out," say the municipalities in northern Akita Prefecture working to revitalize their mining towns. A strong tailwind has begun to blow in these mining towns, which have long been recycling non-ferrous metals (15 types, including lead, copper, and zinc) found in discarded car batteries, shredder dust, and scrap wire. This tailwind comes from the Recycling Law targeting four categories of home appliances, as well as the planned legislation for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment beyond these four categories. This brings a variety of benefits, including the proper disposal of used products subject to recycling, resource recycling, the effective use of energy from incineration, and the prevention of pollution caused by heavy metals.
The economic benefits—which had previously been a challenge—are significant. Since existing facilities and mining technologies can be utilized as-is for the construction and operation of recycling plants, costs can be kept low. I've heard the cost is equivalent to 500 million yen—just one-eighth of what a new plant would cost. Furthermore, unlike recycling plants operated by manufacturers in the "arterial" sector, a key strength here is the ability to develop the business with a deep understanding of the "venous" sector. The fact that this area will be revitalized as a hub for the venous industry and create jobs is drawing attention not only as a means to boost the region's potential but also as a pilot project supporting the industrial structure of a circular economy.
「環境を新しい価値観とした新事業」
廃家電を「現代の鉱石」として衰退の激しい各地の鉱山・精錬場の跡地や施設、技術を活用して、資源の安定供給と環境の調和を図ろうとするリサイクル・マイン・パーク (RMP)構想が、やっと経済的インセンティブを伴う事業として動き出そうとしている。
「再び山に火が灯った。この火を消してはならない」と、鉱山の町の再生に取り組む秋田県北部の市町がある。これまで自動車の廃バッテリーやシュレッダーダスト、電線くずなどに含まれる非鉄金属（鉛、銅、亜鉛など15種類）のリサイクルを続けてきた鉱山の町に、今強い追い風が吹き始めた。家電4品目を対象としたリサイクル法、あるいは法制化が予定される自動車や家電4品目以外の電気・電子機器のリサイクル法という追い風だ。リサイクルの対象となった使用済み製品の適正処理、資源リサイクル、焼却エネルギーの有効利用、重金属による公害防止などの多様なメリットがそこに派生する。
課題だった経済的なメリットは大きい。リサイクルプラントの建設、運用にあたっては、既存施設や鉱山技術をそのまま活用できるので、低コストでOK。聞けば新設プラントの8分の1の5億円相当だという。そして、動脈系メーカーのリサイクルプラントとは違い、静脈を熟知したうえで事業展開できるのも強みだ。この地が将来、静脈産業の核として再生され、雇用が創出されることこそが、地域のポテンシャル・アップ、さらには循環型社会の産業構造を支えるパイロット事業としても注目される。
Friday, April 3, 2026
Deforestation-Induced Soil Erosion and Environmental Conservation - From 1996 to the 2020s
**1990s: Problem Identification**
In the 1990s, soil erosion caused by deforestation emerged as a severe environmental issue in Japan's mountainous regions. Illegal and excessive logging, especially in areas like Kyushu and the Central Japanese Alps, led to soil erosion. Large amounts of sediment flowed into rivers, causing water quality deterioration and sedimentation. The contamination of agricultural water and adverse effects on fisheries became apparent, while the risk of landslides on slopes increased significantly.
**2000s: Transition to Sustainable Management**
Entering the 2000s, the necessity of sustainable forest management became evident. The Forestry Act was amended in 2004 to enforce stricter penalties against illegal logging. Additionally, the 2007 "Global Warming Countermeasures Promotion Law" emphasized increasing forest absorption capacity, aiming to sequester 100 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. During this period, afforestation efforts intensified, with approximately 5 million saplings planted in Gifu Prefecture between 2005 and 2010. Japan's forest management practices gained international attention, and awareness campaigns were launched in 2008 to mark the International Year of Forests.
**2010s: Climate Change and Increasing Rainfall Disasters**
In the 2010s, the increased frequency of heavy rainfall due to climate change severely impacted deforested areas. Following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, soil erosion in deforested disaster-affected areas, particularly in Iwate and Miyagi Prefectures, became a significant issue. The 2018 Western Japan Floods caused approximately 5 million cubic meters of sediment to flow in Hiroshima Prefecture, with sediment removal costs amounting to 4 billion yen annually. In 2015, the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlighted forest conservation as a key objective, driving research into sustainable logging techniques and soil protection measures.
**2020s: Technological Innovation and Community-Driven Initiatives**
In the 2020s, soil erosion due to deforestation remains a persistent challenge. In the Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture, approximately 2.5 million cubic meters of sediment flowed during the 2020 heavy rainfall disaster. Locally, the "Green Disaster Prevention Project" has planted over 120,000 trees in the past five years. Meanwhile, corporate initiatives have also evolved. Oji Paper has implemented sustainable forest management with 2,000 hectares of afforestation annually, and Sumitomo Forestry has introduced new vegetation materials incorporating water-retentive substances, reducing soil erosion by 30%.
**Conclusion**
From 1996 to the 2020s, Japan's deforestation issues have evolved through numerous challenges and solutions. Advances in technology, policy support, and cooperation between communities and businesses have driven efforts toward balancing environmental conservation and economic development. These endeavors are expected to serve as a solution to global environmental problems.
Deforestation-Induced Soil Erosion and Environmental Conservation - From 1996 to the 2020s
**1990s: Problem Identification**
In the 1990s, soil erosion caused by deforestation emerged as a severe environmental issue in Japan's mountainous regions. Illegal and excessive logging, especially in areas like Kyushu and the Central Japanese Alps, led to soil erosion. Large amounts of sediment flowed into rivers, causing water quality deterioration and sedimentation. The contamination of agricultural water and adverse effects on fisheries became apparent, while the risk of landslides on slopes increased significantly.
**2000s: Transition to Sustainable Management**
Entering the 2000s, the necessity of sustainable forest management became evident. The Forestry Act was amended in 2004 to enforce stricter penalties against illegal logging. Additionally, the 2007 "Global Warming Countermeasures Promotion Law" emphasized increasing forest absorption capacity, aiming to sequester 100 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. During this period, afforestation efforts intensified, with approximately 5 million saplings planted in Gifu Prefecture between 2005 and 2010. Japan's forest management practices gained international attention, and awareness campaigns were launched in 2008 to mark the International Year of Forests.
**2010s: Climate Change and Increasing Rainfall Disasters**
In the 2010s, the increased frequency of heavy rainfall due to climate change severely impacted deforested areas. Following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, soil erosion in deforested disaster-affected areas, particularly in Iwate and Miyagi Prefectures, became a significant issue. The 2018 Western Japan Floods caused approximately 5 million cubic meters of sediment to flow in Hiroshima Prefecture, with sediment removal costs amounting to 4 billion yen annually. In 2015, the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlighted forest conservation as a key objective, driving research into sustainable logging techniques and soil protection measures.
**2020s: Technological Innovation and Community-Driven Initiatives**
In the 2020s, soil erosion due to deforestation remains a persistent challenge. In the Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture, approximately 2.5 million cubic meters of sediment flowed during the 2020 heavy rainfall disaster. Locally, the "Green Disaster Prevention Project" has planted over 120,000 trees in the past five years. Meanwhile, corporate initiatives have also evolved. Oji Paper has implemented sustainable forest management with 2,000 hectares of afforestation annually, and Sumitomo Forestry has introduced new vegetation materials incorporating water-retentive substances, reducing soil erosion by 30%.
**Conclusion**
From 1996 to the 2020s, Japan's deforestation issues have evolved through numerous challenges and solutions. Advances in technology, policy support, and cooperation between communities and businesses have driven efforts toward balancing environmental conservation and economic development. These endeavors are expected to serve as a solution to global environmental problems.
The History of Green Tourism and Sustainable Community Development in Kuzumaki Town, Iwate Prefecture
### 1970s–2000s
In 1976, Kuzumaki Town, Iwate Prefecture, established the Livestock Development Corporation and promoted the integration of tourism and agriculture based on dairy farming, under the slogan "Anytime, Anyone, Any Length of Stay." The town developed programs featuring hands-on dairy product manufacturing—a local specialty—and activities that took advantage of the rich natural environment at the foot of Mount Iwate, offering experiential tourism targeted at school trip students and agricultural trainees from China. In fiscal year 2005, the town achieved sales of approximately 1.1 billion yen and received the "Green Tourism Grand Prize 2006." These efforts increased the number of tourists from urban areas and visits from educational institutions, revitalizing the local economy while also being highly praised as a model for sustainable communities.
### The 2010s
In the 2010s, the initiative focused not only on tourism but also on modernizing the dairy farming industry and addressing challenges to support the region's sustainability. Although the region boasted the highest raw milk production in Tohoku thanks to its cool climate and natural environment, the number of dairy farmers continued to decline, falling from 270 households in 2005 to 130 in 2015. To address this challenge, the region focused on joint feed production, division of labor, and training new farmers, and formulated the "New Kuzumaki Dairy Farming Concept."
### The 2020s
Entering the 2020s, the town further strengthened its sustainable energy and tourism resources. To promote renewable energy, it advanced the introduction of wind power and biomass power generation, aiming to improve the region's energy self-sufficiency rate. Additionally, using Kuzumaki Kogen Ranch and Mori no Kodama-kan as bases, the town offered experiential tourism activities such as ice cream making and soba noodle making, welcoming tourists from urban areas and educational tours.
In the dairy farming sector, the town utilized the Regional Revitalization Corps to support new farmers and foster talent, while strengthening the industry's operational foundation through joint feed production and efficient division of labor. This has established a sustainable model that maximizes the use of local resources, and regional revitalization centered on tourism and agriculture continues to this day.
### Conclusion
Through its practice of green tourism, which has continued since the 1970s, and its efforts toward sustainable community development, Kuzumaki Town in Iwate Prefecture has achieved a balance between environmental conservation and economic growth, serving as a model for local governments. Looking to the future, further regional revitalization is expected, with energy and tourism serving as the pillars of this development.
岩手県葛巻町のグリーンツーリズムと持続可能な地域づくりの歴史
### 1970年代～2000年代
岩手県葛巻町は、1976年に畜産開発公社を設立し、「いつでも、誰でも、何日でも」を合言葉に、酪農業を基盤とした観光と農業の融合を推進しました。特産品である乳製品の製造体験や岩手山麓の豊かな自然を活かしたプログラムを展開し、修学旅行生や中国農業研修生などを対象とした体験型観光を提供しました。2005年度には売上約11億円を達成し、「グリーンツーリズム大賞2006」を受賞。この取り組みは都市部からの観光客や教育機関の利用を増やし、地域経済を活性化させるとともに、持続可能なコミュニティモデルとして高く評価されました。
### 2010年代
2010年代には、観光だけでなく、地域の持続可能性を支えるための酪農業の近代化や課題解決に取り組みました。冷涼な気候と自然環境を活かし、東北一の生乳生産量を誇ったものの、酪農家の減少が進み、2005年の270戸から2015年には130戸に減少。この課題に対応するため、エサの共同生産や分業化、新規就農者の育成に力を入れ、「新葛巻型酪農構想」を策定しました。
### 2020年代
2020年代に入ると、持続可能なエネルギーと観光資源をさらに強化しました。再生可能エネルギーとして、風力発電やバイオマス発電の導入を進め、地域のエネルギー自給率向上を目指しました。また、くずまき高原牧場や森のこだま館を拠点に、アイスクリーム作りやそば打ちなどの体験型観光を提供し、都市部からの観光客や教育旅行を受け入れました。
酪農業においては、地域おこし協力隊の活用で新規就農者の支援や人材育成が進められ、エサの共同生産や効率的な作業分担によって経営基盤が強化されました。これにより、地域資源を最大限活用した持続可能なモデルが形成され、観光と農業を核とした地域活性化が続けられています。
### 結論
岩手県葛巻町は、1970年代から続くグリーンツーリズムの実践と、持続可能な地域づくりを通じて、環境保全と経済成長の両立を図り、地方自治体の模範となる発展を遂げています。未来に向けて、エネルギーと観光を柱に、さらなる地域活性化が期待されています。
Thursday, April 2, 2026
"Environmental Management System (EMS) Standards"
There are signs that the business of supporting sites seeking ISO 14001 certification is expanding. Currently, the number of ISO 14001-certified sites in Japan has surpassed 5,500, with approximately 200 more sites obtaining certification each month. While certification is booming, the reality is that many sites struggle after certification because they don't know what specific actions to take or fail to recognize the benefits of certification. There are even occasional voices saying, "We want to surrender our certification." Consequently, the number of consulting engagements focused on providing support to these certified sites is gradually increasing.
"The Background: Regarding EMS Implementation"
This is likely because the focus has been on establishing systems aimed at obtaining ISO 14001 certification and passing audits, while concrete considerations for actual operation have been lacking. Many of the consultants providing support are, so to speak, "document specialists" or "manual specialists." They often handle the system in a purely administrative and mechanical manner, failing to suggest methods for improving environmental impact after certification, and as a result, many cases remain stuck at the level of mere on-site pollution control measures. Those receiving consulting services also focus their efforts on creating manuals for certification. Consequently, the EMS they went to the trouble of building and implementing lacks substance, and the PDCA cycle does not function. Environmental policies are all cut from the same cloth; if you were to remove the site name, you might not even be able to tell which site they came from.
"The other day, from a manager at a certified site"
I was consulted about the proper disposal of wood chips generated on-site. According to him, they used to burn this waste in an incinerator, but from now on, they must improve their practices in line with the recycling rate they've set as a target. However, they don't know how to do it. Options include incineration with heat recovery, converting it into MDF, or carbonization. There are even more recycling options, and when factoring in environmental efficiency, he said he simply doesn't know what to do. Furthermore, regarding the ongoing operation of the EMS, he pointed out a lag in employee training. Concrete challenges are beginning to surface at sites that have obtained ISO 14001 certification. Providing support for these certified sites is a viable business opportunity.
「環境マネジメントシステム(EMS)規格」
ISO14001認証取得サイトへの支援ビジネスが拡大する兆し。現在、日本におけるISO14001の認証取得サイトは5500を突破、さらに毎月約200サイトが認証を得ている。取得が花盛りの一方、多くのサイトで取得後、具体的に何をどうしたら良いのか分からなかったり、認証したメリットを見出せずに困っているのが実情。中には「認証を返上したい」という声もチラホラ。そうした認証取得サイトへのケアを行うコンサルティングの件数が次第に増えている。
「背景としてEMS構築に際し」
ISO14001の認証取得、審査登録を目的とした仕組みが先行し、具体的な運用の配慮が欠如しているからだと思われる。支援コンサルの中には、いってみれば「ドキュメント屋」「マニュアル屋」さんも多く、実に事務的・機械的に仕組みだけをこなし、認証後の環境負荷改善の方法を示唆することなく、相変わらずサイト内の公害対策の域を脱しないケースが多い。コンサルを受ける側も認証取得のマニュアルづくりに注力。結果、せっかく構築・導入したEMSの中身がなくてP.D.C.Aが動かない。環境方針も似たり寄ったりで、サイト名を伏せてしまうとどこのサイトなのか見分けがつかなかったりする。
「過日、認証取得サイトの担当者から」
サイト内で出る木くずの適正処理について相談を受けた。彼によると、従来はその廃棄物を焼却炉で燃やしていたが、これからは目標に掲げたリサイクル率に沿って改善していかなくてはならない。だが、その方法がわからない。焼却して熱回収する方法もあれば、MDFにすることも考えられるし、炭化も可能。リサイクルの選択肢はさらにあり、環境効率なども考慮するといったいどうすれば良いのかわからないという。そしてこれから継続的にEMSを運用していくに当たり、従業員教育の遅れも指摘していた。ISO14001認証取得サイトで具体的な課題が顕在化しつつある。こうした取得サイトのケアがビジネスとして成立する。
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l."
Product development inspired by the natural environment.
The company's first product, the "Naturock Porous Environmental Block"—a composite of concrete and lava rock—was first used in June 1985. The location was not a river, but the Sunazuri Slope at the sixth station of Mount Fuji.
"From 1980 to 1985, there was a series of rockfall accidents on the Mount Fuji hiking trails, and Yamanashi Prefecture was planning to proceed with retaining wall construction to prevent rockfalls while consulting with the then-Environment Agency and the Agency for Cultural Affairs. "However, while retaining walls made of conventional concrete blocks could prevent accidents, there was a risk they would mar the beautiful scenery of Mount Fuji. That's when I received an inquiry," recalls Toshiaki Sato, the inventor of Naturock and Managing Director of Japan Naturock. At the time, Mr. Sato was employed by Fuji Special Concrete Industries (Nishikatsura Town, Yamanashi Prefecture), a concrete products manufacturer where he remains an executive to this day.
The inquiry came in the spring of 1985. The construction had to be completed by July, when the mountain reopens to the public, and traditional stone masonry methods using materials like dry-laid stones would never have been fast enough. So, Mr. Sato proposed a method using materials that embedded lava from the foot of Mount Fuji into the surface of concrete blocks. About four years before this proposal came up, Mr. Sato had already been working on developing materials that embedded lava into concrete blocks and had successfully commercialized them.
"I was born and raised in Fujiyoshida City at the foot of Mount Fuji, and I always felt that the rivers around Mount Fuji, which were being lined with concrete every year, clashed with the surrounding landscape. That's why I was working on developing a new concrete product that would preserve the natural environment and beautiful scenery," says Sato, explaining the impetus behind the development of Naturock.
The idea of using lava was inspired by the Aokigahara Forest at the base of Mount Fuji. The fact that the area is covered in porous lava, which has excellent moisture absorption and retention properties, is a key factor in creating an environment where diverse flora, fauna, and microorganisms thrive. The greatest appeal of lava is not just its appearance, but its ability to create an environment conducive to plant growth.
A material shaped by the forces of nature.
Following the retaining wall construction at the sixth station of Mount Fuji, Naturock—made from natural stone quarried at the foot of the mountain—was adopted for retaining wall work along the Oshino Cycling Road on the shores of Lake Yamanaka in Yamanashi Prefecture. Although natural stone was used to address concerns about the strength of the lava, this decision expanded the range of Naturock products and laid the groundwork for its nationwide rollout. "While we do have a strong preference for lava, we realized that by using local stone that blends into the local landscape, we could popularize Naturock nationwide," says Mr. Sato.
However, since transporting concrete products over long distances incurs high shipping costs, it is common for local companies to supply concrete products specific to their region. The company's Naturock products were also limited to areas within Yamanashi Prefecture, such as the shores of Lake Motosu and Lake Kawaguchi. Therefore, in December 1987, the company established Nippon Naturock as an independent entity separate from Fuji Special Concrete, and simultaneously began recruiting concrete manufacturers and other partners for nationwide technical collaborations. Currently, the number of partner companies ranges from Hokkaido to Okinawa, totaling 20, and the company has also signed a contract with Miyakejima Village.
In 1994, the company moved its headquarters to Tokyo. With increased opportunities to meet directly with local government officials in charge of river projects, the number of installations in the Tokyo metropolitan area grew rapidly, not only for natural stone blocks but also for lava blocks.
NatuRock Environmental Blocks.
Two years after relocating to Tokyo, while walking around the city, he noticed the bleak riverbanks of the urban rivers flowing through the city. Renovating the vertical concrete retaining walls common in urban areas is difficult due to constraints on land space, the impact on residents during construction, and cost issues. This led to the development of "NatuRock Biopode," which has since become the company's flagship product. It consists of a concrete board approximately 2 cm thick with porous natural stones, such as lava, randomly embedded within it. The spaces between the stones are filled with sand and gravel to ensure the concrete surface does not remain exposed. By attaching this to a wall surface, it creates an environment conducive to the natural growth of moss and small gravel without the need to demolish existing riverbanks. The standard type (2 cm thick × 30 cm wide × 110 cm long) weighs 22 kg, making it relatively easy to transport. It can be used not onl
y for riverbanks but also for road retaining walls and pier walls. It represents a new concept of "covering" inorganic structures with natural materials.
[Strictly speaking, simply covering a riverbank does not immediately lead to the restoration of the ecosystem. I believe it would be more accurate to say that it provides a habitat where organisms can thrive even on vertical surfaces. Not limited to Pio Board, the fundamental concept of Naturock is that it is not a product that controls natural processes, but rather a material that is controlled by natural processes.]
A product line of "covering" solutions designed to improve urban environments.
Thanks to this product expansion, sales have grown from an initial 80 million yen to approximately 800 million yen. And the product developed by taking the "covering" theme even further is "Naturock Piofilm." This consists of an ultra-lightweight, ultra-thin special film, or a board substrate of about 5 mm embedded with a porous base material, and does not use concrete. It is even lighter than Pioboard, and the film-type version can cover curved surfaces. "I have been developing concrete-based composite materials for a long time, and I have a strong personal commitment to concrete products. However, if existing structures or concrete blocks already possess sufficient strength, there is no need to deliberately seek strength in the material used to cover the walls," says Sato, pointing to the "Hino no Furuayase No. 99" project (Wako City, Saitama Prefecture) one year after Pio-Port installation. From a business perspective, as long as concrete materials are used
, concrete manufacturers will always be competitors. However, with Biofilm, it becomes possible to supply not only the clients, developers, and general contractors—who have been the main customers for Naturock products to date—but also concrete product manufacturers. He reports that there are already inquiries from major concrete manufacturers.
In any case, Mr. Sato predicts that the concept of "covering" will have a significant impact on the civil engineering industry. "In urban spaces, it is often difficult to remove existing inorganic structures such as riverbanks, walls and fences along roads, and utility poles. Rather than that, I believe that 'environmental civil engineering renovation'—reforming the surfaces of these structures with porous materials and adding appropriate greenery—is a practical approach to improving urban landscapes and the environment."
Factors contributing to the company's growth include technologies that utilize natural materials and the development of a diverse product lineup tailored to specific locations. However, what truly sets the company apart is its firm commitment to a concrete vision—or philosophy—as a practical approach.
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自然環境に学んだ製品開発。
同社の第一号製品である、コンクリートと溶岩石を複合化した「ナチュロック多孔質環境プロック」が最初に使われたのは1985年6月のことだった。場所は河川ではなく、富士山六合目の砂走りレートだった。
「80年から85年にかけて富士山の登山道で落石事故が相次ぎ、山梨県では当時の環境庁や文化庁と協議しながら落石防止の土留め工事を進めようとしていました。しかし、従来のコンクリートプロックによる擁壁では事故は防げても、富士山の美しい景観を損なう恐れがある。そこで私のところに問い合わせが入ったのです」と、ナチュロックの発明者である、日本ナチュロック専務取締役の佐藤俊明さんは振り返る。佐藤さんは当時、現在も役員として関わっているコンクリート製品メーカー、富士特殊コンクリート工業（山梨県西桂町）に所属していた。
問い合わせがきたのは85年の春。山開きの7月までに工事を完了させなければならず、間知石のような素材を使った石積み工法ではとても間に合わない。そこで佐藤さんが提案したのが、富士山麓にある溶岩をコンクリートプロックの表面に埋め込んだ資材による方法だった。すでにこの話が持ち上がる4年ほど前から、佐藤さんはコンクリートプロックに溶岩を埋め込む資材の開発に取り組み、製品化に成功していた。
「私は富士山麓の富士吉田市で生まれ育ち、毎年富士山周辺の河川がコンクリートで固められることに対し、周辺の景観との違和感を常々感じていました。そんなことから自然環境や美しい風景を残せる新たなコンクリート製品の開発を進めていた」と佐藤さんはナチュロック開発のきっかけを語る。
溶岩を利用するというアイデアは、富士山裾野の青木ヶ原樹海にヒントを得た。吸湿性、保水性に優れたポーラス状の溶岩に覆われていることが、多様な動植物、微生物が生息する環境を形成する要因となっている。見た目だけでなく、植物などが生育しやすい環境をつくりだせることが溶岩の最大の魅力だ。
自然の営みにコントロールされる資材。
富士山六合目の士留め工事に続いて、山梨県・山中湖畔の忍野サイクリングロードでの擁壁工事では、富士山麓で採掘された天然石を利用したナチュロックが採用された。溶岩の強度に対する不安が指摘されたことから、天然石を使ったわけだが、これがナチュロックのバリエーションを広げ、全国展開の布石ともなった。「やはり溶岩にこだわりはありますが、その土地の景観に溶け込む地場の石を使うことで全国的にナチュロックを普及できることに気付かされた」と佐藤さんは語る。
ただし、コンクリート製品は、遠方へ運ぶと運搬コストがかさむため、地元の企業がその土地のコンクリート製品を供給するのが一般的。同社のナチュロックも本栖湖や川口湖畔など山梨県下での領域にとどまっていた。そこで、87年12月には富士特殊コンクリートから独立する形で日本ナチュロックを設立すると同時に、全国規模で技術提携を結ぶコンクリートメーカーなどの募集も始めた。現在、北海道から沖縄まで提携した企業は20社にのぼり、自治体では三宅島村とも契約している。
94年には本社を東京に移し、自治体の河川事業担当者と直接会える機会が増えることで、天然石プロックだけでなく、溶岩プロックの首都圏での施工実績も急速に伸びていった。
ナチュロック環境プロック。
東京に移転して2年、都内を歩き回っているうちに気付いたのが、ピルの谷問を流れる都市河川の殺風景な護岸である。都市部のコンクリート垂直三面張り護岸は、土地スペースの確保や施工中の流域住民への影響、コストの問題から改修工事は難しい。そこで開発に取り組んだのが、現在、同社の主力製品ともなっている「ナチュロックビオポード」だ。厚さ2cm程度のコンクリートボードに溶岩を始めとした多孔質天然石をランダムに埋め込んだもので、石と石の間はコンクリート地肌が露出しないよう砂と石で覆われている。これを壁面に張りつけることで、既存の護岸を解体することなく、コケ類や微小礫類が自然発生、成長しやすい状況を作り出すことができる。標準タイプ（厚さ2cm×幅30cm×長さ110cm）で重さ22kgと運搬が比較的
容易で、また護岸だけでなく、道路擁壁やピル壁面などにも使える。無機質なものを自然素材で「覆う」という新たな発想だ。
[厳密にいえば、護岸を覆ったからといって即、生態系の復元につながるわけではないでしょう。垂直面でも生物が生息しやすい舞台を提供できるといった表現が正確かと思います。ピオボードに限らず、ナチュロックの基本コンセプトは、自然の営みをコントロールする製品でなく、自然の営みにコントロールされる資材であるということです】
都市環境を改善する「覆う」製品群。
こうした製品展開により、当初8000万円だった売上は、約8億円にまで拡大している。そして「覆う」というテーマをさらに突き詰めて開発したのが、「ナチュロックピオフィルム」だ。これは超軽量・超薄型の特殊フィルム、もしくは5mm程度のボード基盤材に多孔質基盤材を埋め込んだもので、コンクリートを使用していない。ピオボード以上に軽量で、フィルムタイプのものは曲面を覆うこともできる。「これまでずっとコンクリートをベースにした複合材を開発してきて、私自身のコンクリート製品に対するこだわりも強い。ですが、既存の構造物やコンクリートブロックが十分な強度を持っているのであれば、あえて壁面を覆う素材に強度を求める必要はないという発想で、ピオポート施工1年後の簸の古綾瀬99号（埼玉県和光市�
��す」と佐藤さんは語る。ピジネスの観点から、コンクリート素材を使っているかぎり、コンクリートメーカーはあくまでライバルとなる。しかし、ビオフィルムであれば、これまでのナチュロック製品の主なクライアントである施主やデベロッパー、ゼネコンなど施工業者に加え、コンクリート製品メーカーにも供給が可能になる。すでに大手コンクリートメーカーからの引き合いがあるという。
いずれにしても、「覆う」という発想は土木業界に大きなインパクトを与えることになるだろうと、佐藤さんは展望する。「都市空間においては、護岸、道沿いにつながる塀やフェンス、電柱など、すでに築かれてしまった無機質な構造物を取り除くことは難しいケースも多い。それよりもむしろ、構造物の表面を多孔質なものでリフォームし、適度に緑化させる、いってみれば「環境土木リフォーム」が、都市における景観や環境を改善するひとつの実践論だと考えています」。
同社が成長してきた要因には、自然素材を生かした技術や、ロケーションに応じてさまざまな製品バリエーションを揃えてきたことなどがある。しかしそれ以上に、実践論としての具体的なビジョン、あるいは思想といったものが確固としてあることが、同社の事業をより際立たせている。